Massa not afraid of Raikkonen

Raikkonen is leaving McLaren to replace Michael Schumacher at the Italian squad following the German seven-time champion's retirement. 

The Finn is considered to be one of the main favourites for next year's championship following Ferrari's strong end to the 2006 season.

The team continued showing impressive form when they dominated this week's first test of the off-season at the Barcelona circuit, where Massa was quickest on the opening two days.

Raikkonen will not be allowed to test with Ferrari until next year.

"It would have been better for Kimi to be here testing,  but he's good enough to learn quickly," Massa told Gazzetta dello Sport. "He's strong, but I feel in a fine situation myself, ready to do the maximum: for sure I'm not afraid of him.

"To know the people you work with is an advantage, but if you come over and manage to feel well and the car has no problems you can immediately have a good season.

"Twelve months ago I had only a one-year contract, everyone was sure my presence would have ended quickly. On the contrary, I'm still here, I have a contract, I've won some races, and I'm more relaxed. And ready for the challenge."

During 2006, Massa scored two wins, including one at his season-ending home race in Brazil, on his way to third place in the standings behind Schumacher.

The Brazilian said he learned a lot from the German driver.

"When you find yourself racing with someone like Michael, and sometimes you manage to stay in front, you can't avoid learning. He represented a very good teacher for me, it'll help me in the future," he added.