Massa not changing racing approach

The Brazilian's recent victory in Magny-Cours helped move him to the top of the title standings, and his strong run of form after a shaky start to the campaign have made him a genuine contender for the world title.

But although he has welcomed his place at the top of the standings, Massa insists that his current situation will not alter anything when it comes to races.

"It's nice to be leading the championship and to see your name at the top of the sheet, but to be honest, it means little at the moment and I have to concentrate on other things," Massa told the official Ferrari website.

"There is still a very long way to go and being the leader changes nothing for me. I prefer to concentrate on my job and look at the testing and each race as it comes. Only after all the races will we see if we did everything right.

"Sure, it's good to be first and to come to the next race, leading the series and having won the last race. It gives you a boost, but that only lasts until it's time to start practice again."

Massa was encouraged by the developments to the F2008 tried out during testing at Silverstone last week, although says his biggest concern ahead of the British GP is getting his health back.

"To be honest, I need to have some rest now," he said. "If you remember I had a problem with my neck in Magny-Cours and then picked up a cold bug and had to do two days of testing with some sort of influenza and now I am completely tired.

"I need to relax and concentrate on the next race. My neck is fine after some treatment but now I have this 'flu. But I am sure I will be fine by (the race)."