Alonso pleased to have Massa as team-mate until 2012

Scuderia Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso has welcomed the news that Felipe Massa has extended his contract with the Maranello-based outfit until the end of 2012. The renewel of the Brazilian's contract was announced yesterday and puts a halt to rumours that Robert Kubica would take Massa's race seat at Ferrari.

Alonso said in 'Ticionline': "I am very pleased because it means the same group will be working together for another two years. Stability is very important to the success of a team. I feel very well with Felipe - there is a lot of respect between us and that creates the harmony that is necessary to be together for the long term."