09/09/2013
NEWS STORY
Having previously suggested that losing his Ferrari seat would mean his exit from the sport, Felipe Massa hints at a change of heart.
The Brazilian enjoyed a strong performance at Monza, qualifying ahead of his teammate, Fernando Alonso, following another botched attempt at the slipstreaming tactics that have failed so spectacularly before, then bringing his car home in fourth - having given way to said teammate - and thereby keeping him and Ferrari in the title fight.
"I am very happy with my race, which went fantastically well right from the beginning, thanks to a nice start which moved me up two places," he said after the race. "The pace was good on both compounds and we ran consistently throughout the whole race.
"It was a shame I lost the place to Webber at the pit stop, because today, the podium was within our grasp and it would have been brilliant to celebrate with our fans at our home race. We brought home a good points haul, but we know we still have a lot of work to do if we want to improve. As far as that’s concerned, I will be doing my utmost right to the very end of the Championship."
The team has been at the centre of media speculation for some time as it is widely believed that after eight years Ferrari feels it is time to partner Alonso (or whoever) with someone new.
Previously, Massa has said that if he does leave Ferrari he would not seek an alternative F1 ride, though his attitude appears to have changed.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 after the race, when asked if his performance will have been good enough to secure his seat, the Brazilian said: "Everybody knows me, my talent, so I don't think it is one race which shows what you can do, what you are able to do.
"I think I did a lot in my career, people know me, if it (the result) is important for Ferrari good, otherwise it can be important for another team."
But which team?