Share

Massa wants to feel 'important' to Williams

Cape Town - Felipe Massa feels Williams need to show that they want him for what he can "contribute" on the race track, not just as a mentor to Lance Stroll or to suit the sponsors.

Having been called out of his brief retirement to replace Valtteri Bottas in this year's championship, Massa is now keen to remain in Formula 1 next season. 

The Brazilian, though, is by no means guaranteed a new deal with several drivers - including Fernando Alonso - linked to his seat. 

The one thing Massa does have in his favour over some of the youngsters is his age as main sponsor Martini requires at least one of the teams drivers to be over the age of 25. 

Massa, though, says that is not a reason for him to re-sign. 

"We are talking with Williams," he told the official F1 website. 

"I need to have something that I want to do for myself. 

"I want to feel that I can be important for the team – to contribute. And if that is not possible then I would prefer to do other things." 

He added: "I definitely don’t want to stay in the team just because it fits certain sponsors.

"I want to be able to contribute and want to achieve things for myself. That is what is important for me."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1272 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE