In this Oct. 2, 2012, file photo, Ferrari driver Felipe Massa of Brazil smiles during a press conference
With a dedication to mentor Michael Schumacher, Williams driver Felipe Massa announced yesterday that he will retire from Formula One at the end of the season.
The 35-year-old Brazilian said he chose to make the announcement at the Italian Grand Prix because that was where Schumacher made his retirement announcement a decade ago, which cleared the way for Massa to remain at Ferrari.
“The only way for me to stay was for him to stop,” Massa said. “He chose to give me this option to stay. [Italy] is my second country that I love and I think this is an important place to do this.”
Massa made the announcement at a news conference alongside deputy team principal Claire Williams.
In 14 seasons in F1, Massa has claimed 11 wins, 41 podiums and 16 pole positions. He made his debut with Sauber in 2002 and moved to Ferrari in 2006, alongside Schumacher.
“Apart from the talent and the speed he has on the track, he’s a great guy, very easygoing,” current Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel said. “So he’s going to be missed.” MDT/AP
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