True, DR's race performances haven't been to flash, but I heard he'd got into Q3 in 7 of the last 9 races or something. That's pretty impressive for a youngster driving a slow car.
That partnership will indeed be interesting, there's some speculation going around that Alonso may go back to McLaren before his career ends.
Oh and I'd love to see Barrichello come back into F1, does he have any major sponsors though? Theres meant to be some young Russian who Sauber are looking at because he'd bring tons of money to the team.