The paddock and the Brazilian people pay tribute to Felipe Massa
Apart from a frustrating 11th place for Valtteri Bottas, the Williams team's race was marked by the Formula 1 world's tribute to Felipe Massa, who was taking part in his last Brazilian Grand Prix.
The usually strict protocol of Formula 1 experienced an exceptional breach during the 52nd lap of the Brazilian Grand Prix. Felipe Massa was forced to abandon his car at the pit entrance following an off-track incident in rainy weather conditions where it was very difficult to keep the cars on track.
The Brazilian, who will end his career at the end of the season and was thus participating in his last Brazilian Grand Prix in Formula 1, walked into the pit lane to join his team. However, he did not miss the opportunity to greet his fans at length, waving a Brazilian flag above his shoulders.
But it was when reaching the first pit stalls that Massa’s emotion was strongest. Indeed, the Mercedes mechanics formed a guard of honor for the Williams driver, followed by those from Ferrari, where Massa spent long and fruitful seasons, and then the Grove team members who embraced their driver.
Incredible reaction for @MassaFelipe19 today, from fans, marshals, teams, media. Thank you all. He says: “I'll never forget today” #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/vrCZZUBmTV
— WILLIAMS RACING (@WilliamsRacing) 13 novembre 2016
Massa was obviously moved to tears by the sight of this incredible tribute: « It’s impossible to explain my feelings today, for everything that happened. So much love. We couldn’t finish the race. I wanted to finish in a beautiful way, with the flag at the top. Unfortunately, I couldn’t, but I think God knows what to do. I was walking, in front of my people, with this impressive reaction. Not only the fans, but all the people in Formula 1 who started applauding me. It’s impossible for me to explain these emotions. I never thought I would experience something like this in my life, I don’t think I deserved as much as this. The least I can say is thank you very much to everyone, all the people I worked with, all the fans. I will never be able to forget this day. »
As a result, the outcome of the race became anecdotal for Williams and even for Valtteri Bottas, who finished in a frustrating 11th place: « It was a very difficult day in very difficult conditions. We managed to bring the car back in one piece, but it wasn’t easy. It was impressive to see the support here for Felipe, and I’m sure he really appreciated it. » concluded the Finn.
