While nobody is suggesting that he will up sticks and decamp to Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton's admission, a day before the 2009 season kicks off, that he is willing to listen to offers from rival teams, will hardly inspire the Woking crew.

While it would be wholly incorrect to suggest that the English youngster is already looking elsewhere as he prepares to start the season in a car which, according to his bosses, has a "performance shortfall", such comments will simply demotivate those around him as the media seeks to make further mileage out of them.

The comment came at a press conference where the World Champion, who has been on McLaren's books since the age of 13, was asked if an uncompetitive season in the MP4-24 might see him look elsewhere, namely Ferrari.

"I haven't had offers from other teams and I am not talking to anyone," Hamilton replied. "But I would listen to an offer if someone asked. It would be a compliment and it would be silly if I did not."

Referring to the current 'problem with the MP4-24, he added: "I've driven for McLaren for two years and in both those seasons the team have developed a fantastic car. This year's car is a little behind the rest in terms of development but I'm absolutely confident we will get stronger and grow as the year progresses."

With Ferrari already said to be eyeing Fernando Alonso, Sebastien Vettel and Robert Kubica, even the 2008 World Champion, who is under contact at Woking until 2012, can hardly be considered a shoe-in for the Maranello outfit.