Massa's P6 is "like a victory" for Williams

Felipe Massa drove a solid race to take P6 at the Bahrain Grand Prix, a result he has labelled as good as a victory for Williams. 

Massa was running as high as fourth at one stage but was passed by Kimi Raikkonen in the Ferrari and Daniel Ricciardo in the Red Bull. He enjoyed a close battle with Raikkonen but had to settle for sixth, a result that he is happy with.

The Brazilian also said that he was immensely happy with his first lap pace, climbing many positions.: "I would say it was a great day and I managed to have a great race with a perfect start.

"What a great first lap - I passed Hulkenberg and I managed to pass Kimi at corner four. I kept the tyres working in the right way and then I passed Daniel after the safety car which was great. After a while, they managed to get better pace out of their tyres and jump ahead of us with the car they have."

Despite being passed by the Ferrari and Red Bull later on in the race, Massa didn't let that dampen his mood, as he now sits seventh in the driver standings. 

"But to be honest, the positon I finished today was like a victory and it’s important for the whole team. Today is Frank’s birthday, and although he deserves a victory, it is like one. I am sure he is happy and very proud of his team."

Fergal Walsh