Fernando Alonso’s new long-term deal with Ferrari does not mean Sebastian Vettel is locked out of the famous Italian marque.
The reigning world champion has said many times that he would like to join Ferrari one day, but the presence of Alonso through 2016 - an extended contract that was announced on Thursday - would seem to make that unlikely in the foreseeable future.
German Vettel, however - whose own Red Bull contract extends through 2014 - said in Barcelona that Ferrari is still an option.
"I never said it’s impossible (to go there) if Fernando, Felipe Massa or anyone else is there. I know a team is always two drivers," the 23-year-old runaway championship leader is quoted by the German news agency SID.
"But I’m not making any headlines; I’m happy where I am right now," Vettel insisted.
Spaniard Alonso, meanwhile, warned that his new five-year deal could ultimately be extended even further.
"By the end of 2016, I will have been with Ferrari for seven years and maybe for 2017 I can sign another contract with Ferrari if I am not too old and if they are still happy with me," he laughed on Thursday.