“Felipe Massa remains a Ferrari man”

Felipe Massa only has two Grand Prix left F1 to compete under the colors of Ferrari before leaving the team Maranello, but the Scuderia maintains that the affection which binds it to the Brazilian will remain. Ferrari, whose World Finals (Finali Mondiali) will take place this weekend (November 7-10) on the Mugello circuit, will also pay tribute to Massa for everything he has done for the Italian team since over the last eight years. Ferrari reminds in passing that apart from Michael Schumacher, no other driver has worn the red suit for so long.

The party to be held at Mugello will see a large crowd in Ferrari colors. In what state of mind do you go to Tuscany?
With hope in my heart, because it will be great to thank the fans for all these years of supporting us. They have always supported me, even in the most difficult times.

Do you remember your first day at Ferrari?
It was early 2001 and I had just finished a Formula season. Renault. I came to meet Jean Todt wearing a suit and tie. I was very stressed and shaking.

What was your best moment in red?
Definitely in 2008, when I came so close to the world title, with so many victories and poles. But the day that will never leave me will be that of my victory in Brazil in 2006. For a Brazilian, winning at home is as strong as winning the title. Do you remember Senna? When he won at Interlagos, he was happier than when he won the championship. I learned to fly in Interlagos, I grew up here. Winning here with a Ferrari with a green and yellow combination was the best moment of my life.

Stefano Domenicali (Scuderia team principal) has always said that he considers you the 2008 world champion. Do you share this opinion?
Yes, 100%. I deserved this title, taking into account the whole season and everything that happened... (alluding to the Crashgate in Singapore where Renault, by simulating Nelson Piquet's accident, brought the Safety Car on track and allowed to Fernando Alonso to win the race, while Felipe Massa was initially leading the race. The points lost here, which were never returned to him by the FIA, caused him to lose the title)

What does Jean Todt inspire you?
My best teacher. I first met him when I was 19 and he was the most important person in my career.

Stefano Domenicali?
Definitely a friend, we grew up together at Ferrari.

Of all your teammates, who was the strongest?
Fernando. Schumacher was fast, but in terms of intelligence, Alonso is even better because he manages to combine everything perfectly.

Are you already thinking about what you will do after F1?
I love competition, it's part of my life and it's what makes me happy. Probably after F1, I would try other categories.

Which ones?
Le DTM or the Brazilian Stock Car.

Webber leaves Endurance...
I have no experience of endurance races, however if new top teams enter, it could become interesting.