Felipe Massa does not feel different

Monday morning, Felipe Massa was finally back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car, on Ferrari’s Fiorano track. It wasn’t a test per se, but a way for him to regain confidence in his natural environment: a racetrack. That’s why Ferrari’s F1 Client department provided him with a private F2007, fitted with tires exclusively used in GP2.

After covering 100 kilometers in the day, Felipe Massa asserted that he still feels like the same driver as before his dramatic accident during the qualifying session of the Hungarian Grand Prix. “When I got into the car, it was exactly like before the accident, as if nothing happened,” explained the Brazilian driver for his return to the track. “It was important to show the people working with me that nothing has changed, that I am capable of being competitive, that I can contribute to what will be the new car and finally, that I can fight for the title next season.”

Felipe Massa is already resolutely focused on the next season and insists that he will not take unnecessary risks by attempting a return this year. “We can start preparing for the next season and work to produce a good car and fight for the championships,” said the Brazilian driver. “Which will not be easy due to our current difficult season.”

Moreover, the Ferrari driver sees no downside to Fernando Alonso joining the Scuderia. “Alonso is a great professional,” explains Massa. “I see no reason why there should be any problems with him. He’s not coming here to be my best friend; it’s the professional relationships that matter.”