If the Mercedes v.2012 was a masterpiece, and Michael was able to make the most of his potential in the season as well as Rosberg being able to win a race, then I reckon Michael may stay, he is fit both mentally and physically. Ross Brawn works extremely well with Schumacher so I am sure maybe that he will stay because of the development process of the silver arrows. If the worse came to worse however, then I think Kovalainen would step in.
I'd be surprised if Rosberg ever goes to McLaren. They offered him the seat to replace Alonso at the end of 2007 but he opted to stay at Williams, with Kovalainen getting the drive instead. I think he's blown his chance ever to race there.
I didn't know that. I doubt McLaren would hold a grudge over it though, it will be 6+ years in the past by the time they have a seat available.
Well Frank Williams wouldn't let him go and Nico was happy enough there so he signed a new contract. True, but would he still be seen as suitably talented by then? It does to some degree depend on the quality of this year's Merc.
If I'm honest I don't think Rosberg will leave Mercedes for some time, unless they experience a sharp tailing off of quality. He'll want to lead a team (he was no.1 at Williams before he left let's not forget) which he definitely won't get at any of the three top teams. Plus the whole German team thing will be best for all concerned so they will twist his arm. Don't know who'll get the Mclaren seat in that case though
Mercedes could try, but Vettel has made it clear that his dream is to drive for Ferrari. I think Vettel would have rather finish 3rd at Monza in a Ferrari than win at Monza in a Red Bull. The only thing keeping him at Red Bull is Newey and their current success.
And Ferrari want Vettel to drive for them when his Red Bull contract expires. I really can't see Mercedes having a chance unless they have a dominant car when the engine regs change in 2014.
I think Hamilton is the favourite to join Mercedes if these things happen next year: McLaren have the 3rd fastest car or worse Button continues to beat Hamilton Mercedes show improvement If not, then I expect it to be the winner of the Force India fight - so I've voted for Hulkenburg.
