Felipe Massa: “In Australia we start over from zero”

Felipe Massa is confident that he will have a much stronger season this year after enduring a tough first half of 2012.

Massa spent most of last season in Fernando Alonso’s shadow, but says that this year represents a re-set.

“I can’t imagine a team not wanting two competitive drivers,” said Massa in Italy today. “We are fighting for two titles and I am sure the team will help me if it turns out that my situation was the same as the one that meant Fernando was a contender these past years.

“I remember when Kimi was my team-mate and how much we helped one another from one season to the next. It’s the same with Fernando, it’s team work, while the harmony between us is a help, as it would be in any job.

“In Australia we start over from zero and it will all depend on my ability and on the way the championship pans out. I hope to get off to the best possible start, and my aim is always to carry the Brazilian flag onto the highest step of the podium. This year, I am the only Brazilian in Formula 1 and it was an emotional time on the podium in Interlagos last year, hearing the fans cheering my name. It’s a sign of the affection and closeness I feel from my country and that is fundamental for me.”

Regarding Ferrari’s potential he said: “We must wait and see the new car on track and right from the second test, we will have some indication, but it won’t be until Australia that we will know if we have done a good job.

“Vettel is definitely one of our main rivals, but McLaren also finished last year with a very quick car and the stability of the regulations means they too will be contenders. In any case, I am confident in my team and I am sure Ferrari will be in the hunt.”