Massa on a high

After more than justifying his return to F1 with a haul of 12 points during 2004, as well as impressing as the man who made the most overtaking moves during the course of the season, Massa has started his New Year with a confident outlook.

"I'm sure I will continue to improve in F1," said Massa. "I've got every reason to be optimistic.

"Our initial Michelin tests in November were quite promising, as our car suited perfectly the French tyres. So we expect to take another step forward. Furthermore it`s worthy to note that the C24 is the first model fully built benefiting from our modern wind tunnel.

"For all these motives, we expect 2005 to be a year of great results. For sure it will be a year of a lot of work."

Massa is due to fly back to Europe this week ahead of the official launch of Sauber's new car in Kuala Lumpur on January 11, prior to the first tests of the C24 at Valencia from January 14.