Massa focusing on helping Schumacher

The Brazilian driver joined the Italian team this season, replacing compatriot Rubens Barrichello as the seven-time world champion's teammate.

Massa's contract expires at the end of the season, and Ferrari have said in the past the young Brazilian will have to earn a renewal with his performances.

Massa has put on some promising performances, and has finished on the podium three times on his way to fifth in the standings.

The Ferrari driver says his main goal right now is to help Schumacher, but he admits he wants to stay at the Maranello squad next year.

"My main objective is to carry on racing in F1, and my greatest wish is to keep on doing that with Ferrari," Massa told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I have a contract until the end of 2006, and it is my duty to help Schumacher and the team to the best of my abilities without thinking about what's next. If I'm here I only have Ferrari to thank for an important opportunity.

"I knew that I would be under a lot of pressure by coming to Ferrari, but besides a couple of Grands Prix - Bahrain and Monte Carlo - I think I've done fairly well, I'm happy with what I've done. Now Michael and I will try to climb the highest mountain to catch up with Alonso.

"Fernando is an excellent driver, but with the developments we've had, both of us can manage to stay in front of him."