Ferrari Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa committed to getting past controversial 'team order' memories
Ferrari driver, Felipe Massa is determined to perform strong at the upcoming 2011 Formula 1 season to wash away all the poor memories of the 'team orders' controversy of last season.
The Brazilian accepted that his fans and especially the fellow countrymen were very disappointed and angry last year. He still believes that they still follow him and will cheer him just the same way if he performs well this year.
He explained to the reporters earlier today, "(But) good results always make people change their minds between cheering for you or being opposed to you. Even with everything that happened, I know I'm still supported, especially in my country. Going to restaurants,
on the street in Brazil, of course nobody congratulated me but they said things like 'keep strong, head up' and this helped me a lot."
At the German Grand Prix last year, Massa was heading for a certain race win, as he received a coded radio message informing him that his team-mate Fernando Alonso was faster than him. Massa slowed down and allowed Alonso to pass, as he went on to win his
second race of the season.
The surrender not only affected Massa’s performance for the rest of the season, but also badly stung many proud Brazilians. They criticized the famous Italian squad and also showed a lot of anger for Massa himself.
Massa realises that he needs to put in some good consistent performances in the upcoming 2011 Formula 1 season, to regain his respect and reputation with his fans.
Massa had a brilliant 2008 campaign and missed the title just at the last round of the season to McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton. He followed up with some strong performances in the 2009 season. Massa was unable to finish the season after having a near-fatal crash
in Germany. This year he is determined to come-back in full zeal and bag as many points as he can for his team. He understands that the only way back into the hearts of the fans, is to win races.
Tags: