Massa Optimistic of Strong Home GP

Brazilian Felipe Massa is optimistic of a strong home Grand Prix after posting the eighth quickest time in today's practice at the Interlagos circuit.

"I'm really happy so far," said the Sauber driver. "Of course this is a big weekend for me, racing in front of my home crowd, so eighth place is a good start. The car is very good, once we got the right set-up after this morning, and we have done our tyre choice.

"The car was strong straight away on the first lap with the latest Bridgestones, so I am feeling quietly confident that we can do well."

23-year old Massa will take part at the Brazilian Grand Prix for the second time in his career after racing with Sauber in the 2002 event. Back then the Brazilian retired after a collision just 14 laps into the race.

Massa's teammate Giancarlo Fisichella wound up 17th quickest in today's session after struggling with balance of his car.

"This morning I had oversteer and this afternoon it was understeer, so we still have a little work to do on the set-up," said Fisichella. "We need somewhere in the middle! But the car was good in the long runs, so I am confident for the race."