Massa: “Everyone is in the same boat”
For the new Williams driver, Felipe Massa, this new season will be a big leap into the unknown. The new 2014 regulations could be an opportunity for a team like Williams to come up for air.
After a few weeks of vacation spent with family between Brazil and Miami, Felipe Massa returned to work with his new team Williams, and went to the factory to, among other things, have his new seat molded. On this occasion, he reflected on what could be a surprising season for many people.
For the Brazilian, it will be very hard to know how to adapt his driving before stepping into the cockpit of his car. One thing is certain, there is a lack of downforce compared to last year’s cars. There will be many changes this year, but everyone is in the same boat. Until we’re in the car, we don’t know what we need to learn or not. Things like throttle control with increased torque, and what effect the ERS (which replaces the KERS in 2014) will have on the driving style… In terms of aerodynamics, the cars will have less downforce than in 2013, at least during the first part of the season. These are major changes we need to quickly integrate when we start testing.
But Felipe Massa trusts his team and is aware of the historical significance of becoming a Williams driver, especially as a Brazilian: « Williams has a big factory, extensive resources, and I know they have everything needed to be competitive. It’s a great team with a rich history, so the goal is, of course, to put everything in place to move in the right direction. My fans are also very happy about my transfer to Williams, especially given the team’s history with Brazilian drivers like Nelson [Piquet] or Ayrton [Senna]. This makes the team very popular in Brazil. »
The 2008 world vice-champion is very ambitious and aims for great objectives with Williams: « I can help the team return to where it comes from and fight for victory. »
