Massa sees no reason to leave F1 after 2017
- Published on 08 Aug 2017 10:09
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- By: Fergal Walsh
Felipe Massa says that he sees no reason why he should leave Formula 1 following the 2017 season. The Brazilian is not under contract for next year after he came out of retirement in January, returning to Williams to replace Valtteri Bottas who was headed to Mercedes.
The former Ferrari driver announced last September that he would retire after the 2016 season, and had an emotional farewell at his home Grand Prix. However, back in the driving seat, Massa has scored points on six occasions this year and currently lies eleventh in the standings.
Speaking to Autosport, the eleven time Grand Prix winner said: "Sure, yes. I’m really in good shape, the way I’m driving, the way I understand the car and everything. I have no reason not to stay in F1, but we’ll see what’s going to happen."
Cheif Technical Officer Paddy Lowe also had praise for Massa: "He’s a fantastic guy to work with: enthusiastic, friendly, very supportive of Lance and the learning that Lance [Stroll, teammate] needs to go through. He’s fun to work with and a very stable and dependable guy to have on the other side of the garage. I think if we could give Felipe the right car, he could go and get the job done."
As well as Massa unconfirmed for next season, Stroll is also signed on a one-year deal and is yet to pen an extension. The Canadian had a underwhelming start to his career but has since come up to speed, scoring his first podium in Azerbaijan.
Fergal Walsh
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Replies (6)
Login to replyf1fan0101
Posts: 1,804
Who could replace him though??
Wolfgang
Posts: 313
DiResta?
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Button? Assuming he even want to return.
Barron
Posts: 625
I like Felipe. He is a cuddly looking fellow and on a good day, he can beat the best..
Patentprutser
Posts: 392
Why did he leave last year than??
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
At the time, Williams were pretty sure they could retain Bottas and have Stroll in the other car, or they could get Button, but Rosberg leaving Mercedes and Bottas replaced him, and Button left F1, so they didnt really have much to choose from, so Massa returned.