Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has told Felipe Massa to "prove himself" in next year's world championship to ensure a future with the Italian team.
The Brazilian has failed to finish on the podium this year, spending most of the season in the shadow of teammate Fernando Alonso.
Massa's contract with the Maranello team expires at the end of the 2012 season and Di Montezemolo outlined next season as important for the 30-year-old.
"We expect great things from him in 2012, and then we'll decide how to proceed. Let's say he'll have to prove himself.
"Even if he didn't have such a great season or much luck, we can't question the ability of a driver who was winning the title three years ago, and who has always been fast and competitive."
Massa will race in his home grand prix at Interlagos in the final race of the 2011 calendar this weekend.
