Heikki Kovalainen

Having clinched his maiden victory in 2008, Heikki will once again race for McLaren in the new year. But can he challenge Lewis for the title?

Lewis Hamilton

Lewis fulfilled his potential in 2008 becoming F1's youngest-ever World Champion, which means in 2009 he is the man to beat...

Fernando Alonso

Having opted to stay at Renault, Alonso will be bouyed by the team's strong finish to 2008. But can they carry it through and put up a challenge in 2009?

Nelson Piquet Jr

Nelson Piquet Jr has been offered a second season with Renault but can he put this chance to impress to better than use than he did in 2008?

Kimi Raikkonen

The reigning Champ failed to live up to his billing in 2008, claiming just two wins from 18 races. However, expect Kimi to fight back in 2009...

Felipe Massa

Drivers' title runner-up Massa will be looking to go one better in 2009. But can Ferrari fix the mistakes the cost him the title by a point in 2008...

Jenson Button

2008 was another nightmare season for Jense and Honda and there's a serious question mark over whether or not 2009 will be any better...

Rubens Barrichello

Having failed to shine during a dismal season for Honda, Rubens Barrichello is still awaiting word on whether he'll be retained for 2009...

Nick Heidfeld

Finishing sixth in 2008, Nick will remain at BMW in 2009. However, he needs to get the better of his team-mate if he hopes to continue...

Robert Kubica

Having claimed BMW's first pole and first win and finishing fourth in the standings, Robert should be set to mount a title challenge in 2009...

Jarno Trulli

With Toyota's first win still appearing to be someway off in the distance, Jarno Trulli will at least be hoping for a few more podium finishes...

Timo Glock

An solid showing in his first season back in F1 has earned Timo Glock a new Toyota contract and a seat in the fight to claim the team's first win...

David Coulthard

David Coulthard called it quits on his 15-year Formula One career, competing in his final grand prix at the season-ending Brazilian race. Adios!

Mark Webber

After a more reliable season and a few added points, Mark headsinto 2009 bouyed with confidence. But can he keep new team-mate Vettel at bay?

Nico Rosberg

With Williams having shown signs of promise and improvement in 2008, Nico Rosberg will be hoping for a better showing in 2009...

Kazuki Nakajima

Kazuki Nakajima will remain at Williams in 2009 - but he will need better results if he wants to extend his contract beyond that...

Sebastian Vettel

Seb Vettel outdid himself and his Toro Rosso car in 2008, even bagging the team's first pole and win in Italy. But in 2009 he's off to Red Bull...

Sebastien Bourdais

A mixed debut season for Seb Bourdais saw him score points but fail to match his team-mate Vettel. However, right now he's waiting on a new deal...

Giancarlo Fisichella

Giancarlo Fisichella will remain a Force India driver in 2009 after helping the team find some improvements - at least that's the word for now...

Adrian Sutil

Sutil may not have scored any points in 2008 but a strong fourth place in Monaco before being shunted out ensured he was able to show his class...

Takuma Sato

Takuma Sato has been out of F1 since Super Aguri went under in May. However, he hopes to make a return with Toro Rosso in 2009...

Takuma Sato

Anthony Davidson

Anthony Davidson has been out of F1 since Super Aguri went under in May and at present there are no reports of a pending return for the Brit...