Massa denies 2011 is a crucial year

Felipe Massa was one of the main attractions at this fantastic final day of the 2010 Ferrari World Finals. “I am happy to be here: it’s an amazing event and it’s nice to be here alongside our fans and our customers and to see so many extraordinary cars out on track,” commented the Brazilian driver. “It was really a lovely day.”

As for the subject of Formula 1, the Scuderia Ferrari driver could not but draw a parallel between the way the 2008 and 2010 seasons ended, when in both cases, a Prancing Horse driver lost the fight for the Drivers’ title at the very last race. “They were both very difficult moments for the team. Sure, in Brazil two years ago, going into the Grand Prix, we did not have much of a chance, but then, during the race, the situation developed so that it looked as though I could win, but it all changed in the last two corners. Two weeks ago, on the other hand, Fernando set off leading the classification, but we know how it turned out in the end. You cannot compare the two situations, but I can understand how my team-mate felt.”

Felipe is already focussed on the future after a season that definitely did not live up to his expectations. The first step on the road to next year has already happened last week in Abu Dhabi, where Felipe was able to carry out the first test with the new Pirelli tyres. “First impressions are very positive,” revealed Felipe. “The tyres immediately worked well, without the need to drastically change the car set-up. Sure, there is still work to do, but it was a really good day. I don’t think 2011 signifies a crucial year for me. Fundamentally, I have been in this situation often. I remember that at the start of 2006, many people said I would only last a year at Ferrari and then I won races that season and went on to stay for a long time more. In 2008, there was a lot of pressure, especially at the start, but I managed to cross the line at the end of the final race as world champion. This year, there were many who said I would have a difficult year after my accident in Budapest: it turned out that way, but not for that reason. My approach always remains the same: starting the championship with the aim of winning as many races as possible. Over the years, the names of at least ten drivers have been put forward as replacements for me at Ferrari, but I am still here!”