Grapevine: Veteran trio set to get new F1 deals

The three men are the oldest on the grid but, despite the huge impression being made by young rookie Lewis Hamilton, the trio have impressed their bosses enough to be tipped to keep their jobs for 2008.

Barrichello has enjoyed a rejuvenation of form this year, despite the struggles that his Honda Racing team have faced.

The Brazilian has outqualified his teammate Jenson Button for the last four races, and is far more comfortable with the characteristics of this year's Bridgestone tyres than he was with the Michelins he had last season.

Despite the team evaluating Marco Andretti in testing, and having been approached by Nick Heidfeld's management, sources have revealed that Honda intend to retain Barrichello for another campaign.

It is suggested that an announcement could be made as soon as next month, with the team keen to ensure that their attempts to improve the car are not compromised by a lack of stability on the driver front.

When asked by autosport.com whether he was happy with his chances of staying with Honda next year, Barrichello said: "I am quite relaxed. I have a lot of speed in myself and I have no intention to stop, so there is no big deal."

Fisichella has also made improvements to his attitude and form this year, with many of his critics certain that this would be his last season in F1 over the winter after two disappointing campaigns alongside Fernando Alonso at Renault.

His team are understood to be impressed with the commitment that the Italian has made to helping the French car manufacturer resolve their current problems, and his chances of being retained have been boosted by Heikki Kovalainen's inconsistent form so far.

At Red Bull Racing, Coulthard is the oldest driver on the grid but team chiefs are believed to be happy with his continued speed, and especially like the experience he can bring to the improving team.

Coulthard has made no secret of the fact that he wants to stay on board for another campaign and, although formal discussions have not begun in earnest for 2008, sources have told autosport.com that both parties are keen for their partnership to continue.

The F1 driver market looks set to remain pretty stable into next season, with driver moves only likely to take place further down the grid.

Of the front-running teams, Ferrari and McLaren's current drivers are already contracted for next season, while BMW Sauber are almost certain to take up Nick Heidfeld's option in the next few months.