Felipe Massa feels confident about 2011 with Pirelli
After having spent an abortive 2010 season, Felipe Massa is looking forward to a strong upcoming season. The driver explained this morning that he hopes to return on the next grid with a far improved pace and form with the new Pirelli tyres.
The 2010 season started off nicely for the driver but ended in much disappointment. He finished the season opener, Bahrain Grand Prix at second place on the podium. However, the same results were not seen by him again until the German Grand Prix where he
once again ended at 2nd place. However, following the race, the driver was not seen dominating the track all through the rest of the season.
The German round was a turning point for the season’s standings. Ferrari made its comeback into the tug for the title, although in a very controversial manner. Massa, who was leading the race, was asked by the team to hand over his victory to his teammate,
Fernando Alonso. Following this ‘team order’, the Brazilian insisted several times all through the rest of the season that he will not play a No.2 driver for the team however, that was actually what he kept doing. His teammate, Alonso as well as the team kept
pushing Massa to steal as many points as he can from his rivals. However, he was never seen very strong again.
Now, as the Formula One caravan is heading for the next season, the team has clearly informed the driver to tune up or he might lose the team’s seat after this season.
While talking to the reporters earlier today, Massa insisted that the next season is going to be a problem free year. The 2008 championship runner-up further stated that the biggest problem he faced last year was the Bridgestone tyres. However, the drivers’
first test with Pirelli last November brought the driver back on pace immediately, which gives a hope of a far better season ahead.
The 29-year-old explained saying, "My first contact (with Pirelli) was very positive. I found the car easier to drive with the front tyres having more grip; I could go into the corners in the way I like to drive.”
His teammate, Alonso also assured his fans that he will come back very strong next season. After having missed his third title narrowly last year, he is adamant to bag it this season. The Spaniard said, "We will know more at the next test in Valencia, which
will be very interesting. My style of driving will definitely have a little change (for 2011).”
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