Felipe Massa says pay drivers have caused an absurd situation in Formula 1 – Formula 1 news
Ferrari driver Felipe Massa believes that the amount of pay-drivers in the sport has caused an “absurd situation.”
Massa expressed his disappointment over the increased role of pay drivers with in the game at the backdrop of his friend and countryman Rubens Barrichello not being able to secure a race seat for the 2012 season.
The veteran of 19 Formula 1 seasons- highest by any driver within the sport- was eager to make an appearance for the 20th season of his career but was not able to after a poor season with Williams.
Although the 39-year-old could not be blamed for the poor showing in the 2011 season because he did not have the equipment to compete at the highest level but the overall poor showing of the team meant that Williams needed to go for a driver that could bring
in the finances as well.
According to Barrichello who was eagerly awaiting a nod from Williams to give him another go was devastated to hear that Senna was chosen over him. He said that he had no issues with Senna and he wished him all the best for the 2012 season.
Senna reportedly brought in $40 million in sponsorships which is considered to be the deciding factor for his inclusion although Senna is not considered to be a below par driver.
“Today, there are only four teams that can afford to operate without drivers that bring money,” Massa told Totalrace. “It's an absurd situation and I don't think it's good for F1 and especially the young drivers. Even if you get very good results in the
formulas below (F1), you either have to be lucky or have money in order to get a seat. That's not F1.”
News of Caterham to replace Jarno Trulli for another driver who can bring in the finances required has been speculated. It would be a sorry state of affairs if this increases in the coming years. Fortunately, the top teams are not looking at drivers as cash
cows and are keeping the sport competitive and interesting.
Massa will be driving the latest edition of the Ferrari at the first pre-season test on February 7, 2012 at Jerez.
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