Sauber signs Massa
The Sauber Formula 1 team has officially confirmed that Felipe Massa will return next year after a year away as Ferrari test driver. He has signed a two-year contract with the Swiss team
The 22-year-old Brazilian will partner Giancarlo Fisichella in the squad's line-up next year, and is delighted that he has regained a race seat in F1.
"My year as a Ferrari test driver has been of great value to me, and I've learned a lot," said Massa. "Naturally, though, my goal has been to drive races again. I'm overjoyed to return to Sauber-Petronas. I had a great time with them before, and there's no doubt in my mind that the team has all the prerequisites for being successful."
Team boss Peter Sauber was happy to welcome Massa back into the Sauber fold.
"Back in 2002, Felipe already proved his exceptional speed," said Sauber. "At the end of that season, I had recommended to him that, rather than going on to race for any other team, he should sign on with Ferrari as a test driver in order to become even more familiar with the technical aspects of Formula 1.
"Getting first-hand experience of how Ferrari and Michael Schumacher operate is perfect training for a young racing driver. I'm convinced that Felipe is now able to make optimum use of his potential.
"For years, I've deemed Giancarlo one of the best racers in F1, and after his year with Ferrari I also expect a great deal of Felipe."
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