Rubens Barrichello: “I'm not ready to leave Formula 1 yet”

Rubens Barrichello says all he wants for 2012 is a competitive car – after revealing he has the motivation, the support of his family and the design for a new helmet already in place for next year.

The Brazilian had an emotional weekend at Interlagos, with uncertainty surrounding his future in Formula 1.

However, Barrichello reiterated that he wants to continue and will have the helmet designed by his son ready for the first race of next season.

“My son painted the helmet for me for next year, and if I sign the contract, it will be my drawing for the first race,” Barrichello said. “I'm not ready to leave F1 yet.”

Barrichello said he is convinced he has a seat for next year and that's why he didn't want to say goodbye to the fans after the checkered flag.

“The only thing I knew when I was in the slowdown lap is that I could say goodbye to the fans, but I know I'll be back,” he said.

Barrichello believes the efforts he has made with Williams should justify another season with the team.

“I think I deserve the seat for next year,” he said. “It was tough to lead the team this year with Sam Michael leaving.”

“In F1, people come and go, because you basically don't have the situations that you have in F3, F3000, GP2 or whatever. The pressure is much greater in F1 and sometimes teams have to make decisions that disappoint you. So many fast drivers left because they weren't happy in F1. I am ready to give everything I have for the passion I have behind the wheel. I'm ready to sign."

“I don't need a big contract, I just need something that tells me I can drive a competitive car next year, I just want a competitive car, I don't want any favors and I don't want to just drive for the sake of it. ”