Felipe Massa: “Now I'm more motivated than ever”

Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo believes that Felipe Massa's recovery in the second half of the 2012 season could have a positive influence on the team ahead of next season.

After some problems in the first races, the Brazilian driver has finished in the points in all of the last ten Grands Prix, helping to secure the Maranello team second place in the constructors' championship.

Finally, he also played a fundamental role in the drivers' standings and in particular in Austin when, after qualifying, he suffered a penalty to allow his teammate, Fernando Alonso, to start on the clean side of the track.

“I don't know where you went in the first part of the year,” di Montezemolo said to Massa. “But I'm very happy you're back.”

“It also allowed us to finish ahead of other teams in the constructors' championship, but (Massa, ed.) it is also important for next year.”

Massa, who admitted that uncertainty over his future at Ferrari had affected his performances somewhat, said his recovery had served as preparation for next season.

“This has been a very difficult year for me, especially at the beginning, when we couldn't find a way to make progress with the car,” admitted Felipe Massa.

“The second part was very different: I was more competitive and managed to find my rhythm.”

“Now I'm more motivated than ever: the second part of the season was like a training session for next year.”

Di Montezemolo added that for Ferrari it is essential to be competitive from the first race.

“Fernando had an extraordinary season and I regret not having given him a fast and reliable car.”

“In 2013 the goal, not just for me but for all of you, is to have a car capable of winning.”

“We all have to work a little harder without losing our strengths demonstrated during the 2012 season, starting with reliability.”

Gianluca Latina