Stefano Domenicali says that the team is going to protect Felipe Massa – Formula 1 news
Stefano Domenicali has said that the team is aligned with Felipe Massa and are looking to protect him.
Domenicali has hinted that Ferrari are looking to replace the Brazilian for the 2013 season to partner up with the team’s number one driver Fernando Alonso, but he has reiterated that the team will lookout for their driver.
“We are aligned with Felipe and we want to protect him. It is important for this championship,” he said.
Massa’s contract will end at the end of 2012 with Ferrari and it is almost certain that the Brazilian will now be replaced. There have been a lot of names show up to replace Massa, the most notable and linked name was of the Red Bull driver Mark Webber.
The Aussie has decided to stay on with Red Bull ending any potential for him to join Ferrari for 2013.
Domenicali admitted that Webber’s decision has left Ferrari to ponder over other names for their second driver. Recent reports are speculating Kimi Raikkonen to be linked with Ferrari for 2013 but as of now it is only speculations neither side have confirmed
or denied this rumour.
German broadcaster Sky has quoted Domenicali as saying that Ferrari’s philosophy has been to have a great champion and then a very good driver who is close to him. The statement plays down the notion that Raikkonen will be pairing up with the Spaniard for
2013.
“Kimi was a world champion with us and I have seen the gossip – but nothing more than that,” team boss Stefano Domenicali is quoted by the Sun newspaper.
When asked whether Raikkonen and Jenson Button are unlikely team-mates for Alonso Domenicali replied, “I think these drivers have contracts with other teams,” Domenicali answered. “And we are not in a rush.”
Massa has said that if he does not find a race seat with a competitive for 2013, it might mean the end of his career in Formula 1. The Brazilian still hopes for keeping his race seat with Ferrari and is looking to come up with consistent performances to
sway the team’s decision towards him.
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