Ferrari announces new two-year contract for Massa

Felipe Massa

(GMM) Ferrari on Wednesday confirmed speculation that Felipe Massa is staying alongside current teammate Fernando Alonso next year.

And the famous Italian team also said in a media statement that Brazilian Massa, 29, will still be a Ferrari race driver in 2012.

"I am happy to be given the opportunity to drive for Ferrari for a further two seasons," he said.

With Spaniard Alonso under long-term contract, the news ends rumors that Renault's Robert Kubica might switch to Ferrari in the near future.

The other driver recently linked with Massa's seat, Mark Webber, has re-signed with Red Bull Racing for 2011.

"We wanted to show proof of stability for the future, believing in the worth of a driver pairing that is without equal in terms of talent, speed and its ability to work together for the good of the team," said team boss Stefano Domenicali.