Massa not worried about Ferrari form
Brazilian Felipe Massa says he is not worried about the prospect of joining Ferrari after a season in the doldrums
Massa will replace Rubens Barrichello alongside Michael Schumacher at the Italian squad who, after dominating the 2004 season, scored only one win in 2005 and went on to finish a distant third in the constructors' standings.
"The fact that the team is in a crisis at the moment doesn't worry me," Massa said in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I come from a small team, so it's a step forward regardless. Besides, many things will change from next season: qualifying, engines and regulations. Ferrari will adapt soon, they're capable of that."
The Brazilian, however, is keeping his feet on the ground.
"Actually I often think about next year, what it will be like, if I'll get the car of my dreams, if I'll already be able to win some races and maybe fight for the title," he added. "In any case I keep my feet on the ground: I know I most of all need to get experienced and hope the new car will be good. I'll know as soon as it's ready."
Massa is also looking forward to the challenge of having Schumacher as his teammate.
"I think it's the greatest comparison a driver can have. It means that you are able to know exactly how you do compared to everyone else," he said.
The former Sauber driver, a Ferrari tester in 2003, is unconcerned about the possibility of having to play second fiddle and let Schumacher through in the races.
"I don't think that will happen anymore, as a few things have changed. Not much at Ferrari, but in this sport itself. So I'm not worried."
Massa will start testing for Ferrari today at the Vallelunga circuit, working with the new V8 engine, and the young Brazilian can't wait to start.
"I'm ready and I want to start working immediately," Massa added. "I'm happy of doing all this testing, because I'm switching teams and I have lots to learn. The more experience I get, the more it'll be useful in the races. In any case I'll be able to go home in Brazil for a few days in November to relax."
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