Felipe Massa signs new Ferrari deal

 

Pa
Wednesday 17 October 2012 11:15 BST
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Felipe Mass will drive for Ferrari next season
Felipe Mass will drive for Ferrari next season (Getty Images)

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Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali has already indicated to Felipe Massa that a return on the latest show of support for the Brazilian is expected.

Yesterday, following a meeting with president Luca di Montezemolo, Massa agreed a year's extension on his contract through to the end of 2013.

It was a move that finally ended all the speculation surrounding Massa's future that has been particularly fierce this year due to the wretched start to the campaign made by the 31-year-old.

But with 30 points from the last two races, more than he accrued from the opening 11 prior to the summer break, there has been a surge in form when it mattered most.

It means Massa will drive for Ferrari for an eighth consecutive campaign, but without doubt facing a call for improvement next year.

Domenicali said: "We are pleased to have extended our relationship for a further year with Felipe, who has been part of our family for over a decade

"He has shown, especially in this recent part of the season, he is again competitive at the highest level, which is what is expected of every driver who gets behind the wheel of a Ferrari.

"We have always supported Felipe, even in the most difficult moments of his career, and we are certain of his worth and are sure he will know how to repay the confidence this renewal proves we have in him."

With 56 points overall from his last five races since the holiday period, only Sebastian Vettel has accumulated more, with Massa even outscoring team-mate Fernando Alonso.

It is evidence Massa's lack of understanding with this year's car is finally behind him, and with the regulations stable for next season, he is in a position to deliver more in 2013.

Naturally relieved one of the most uncertain periods of his F1 career is finally behind him, he said: "I am very happy to have reached this agreement.

"Ferrari is my racing family and throughout my entire time in Formula 1, I have always driven cars powered by engines built in Maranello - I can't see myself driving cars propelled by anything else!

"First and foremost, I want to thank President Montezemolo and Stefano Domenicali, who had faith in me and who have always supported me, even at the most difficult moments.

"The team and also all the fans can rest assured I will do all in my power to help the Scuderia reach the targets it sets itself each year."

PA

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