Barrichello’s advice to Massa: Relax
While Felipe Massa is experiencing a difficult start to the championship, his compatriot Rubens Barrichello advises him to relax and remember why he is in F1.
Felipe Massa is not having a smooth start to the season. Between a capricious F2012, disappointing performances, and incessant rumors about his potential replacement in the short or long term, it’s safe to say that the atmosphere surrounding the Brazilian is far from serene.
However, according to Rubens Barrichello, his compatriot needs to regain that serenity and relax. « It’s not a speed issue, it’s something he must resolve himself. He needs to close his eyes and remember that he’s doing this because he loves it, » explains the Brazilian veteran, currently involved in IndyCar, to the site Globoesporte.com.
« Every time I felt a little lost, I reminded myself that I was doing this because it was something I loved. As a pilot, you need to relax, and then you can improve. »
Aside from a Ferrari that is not the best on the grid, Massa must also contend with Fernando Alonso, who is highly regarded by the team. « It is certain that Ferrari loves Alonso because he is one of the best, if not the best in F1. So Felipe has a difficult obstacle to overcome. »
This obstacle may be less insurmountable once the Scuderia has the F2012B, expected for Barcelona. According to the Italian publication Autosprint, the engineers at Maranello might seek inspiration from Sauber to perfect the new version of their single-seater.
The pontoons and exhaust outlets of the Sauber C31 are particularly concerned. While this information should be taken with caution, it is not absurd since Red Bull had already copied the Swiss team’s concept, deemed to be at the limit of the regulations.
