‘After 27 years of my racing career, since I started karting and with 15 years in F1, this will be my last season in F1.
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He drove exclusively for F1 stalwart constructors. Ten years ago in Monza, a driver announced he was leaving too – and he is one more than any other that had an influence on my career: “Michael Schumacher”. Massa’s career had it all. The World Championship came down to a single position and a race between two men some 40 seconds behind the leader. He now holds the ninth position in the overall standings of the current season. His last race, his 250th, will be the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November.
“I’m so proud to have been part of this team”, he said.
I dare you to watch as he takes the top step of the podium to Brazil’s national anthem and as the adrenaline begins to leave his blood, see his eyes well with tears and not feel something. Generous to a fault, loyal to his friends, and always ready with an affectionate insult, Felipe Massa will be sorely missed. He was dignity in victory and defeat, he was stoicism in struggle and under pressure, and he was a bundle of passion and pride.
In 2009, Felipe Massa suffered a life-threatening auto crash during the Hungarian GP, when the suspension spring from Rubens Barrichello’s Brawn vehicle struck the Brazilian driver’s helmet.
The 35-year-old revealed his decision at a press conference on Thursday ahead of the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.
But amiable as he is, no driver wants to be remembered for his personality when there is a decade-plus of excellent on-track performances to consider. While fast and a bit ragged at times, Massa had the reputation of being soft and emotional – attributes that stayed with him despite the ups and downs the world of Formula 1 offered, and at times worked against his favour in a career that could otherwise be labeled as courageous and illustrious. On Saturday afternoon, it all looked good – Felipe was on pole, while Hamilton was on the second row. Then we made a decision to change the sensors and it was fine after but then I just did three laps at the end.
Speaking about his retirement, Massa said, “I must start by especially thanking my wife and my father, my whole family, my manager Nicolas and all the people who have supported me throughout my career“. He stayed there until the end of the 2013 season, partnering Michael Schumacher in 2006, and Kimi Raikkonen in 2007.
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Obrigado, Felipe. F1 is richer for having had you among its ranks, for sure.
