After RedBull extended Mark Webber's contract for one more year, it was Ferrari turn to extent Felipe Massa's contract to another two years, ending weeks of speculation about him being replaced at the end of this season.Robert Kubica, Mark Webber (who has finally signed again with Red Bull) and even Valentino Rossi were the names being touted to take Massa's place, but Ferrari has put an end to speculation by making an announcement well ahead of its traditional Monza deadline. Massa has become a fixture at the Italian team, after he started his career with a Ferrari-powered Sauber in 2002 and graduated to become a full Ferrari race driver in 2006. He even lost in the last seconds of 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix the F1 world title and many believe that he would not had another chance soon to become a F1 champion contender.
Massa commented:
"I am happy to be given the opportunity to drive for Ferrari for a further two seasons," he said. "Throughout my entire Formula 1 career, I have always raced with an engine made in Maranello and it is a matter of pride for me to be able to continue working with a team that I regard as a second family."
Massa has had a tough start to the season after returning from a life-threatening accident at the Hungarian Grand Prix last year. However, Ferrari boss Stefano Domenicali said team stability took precedence in the decision and that he is still happy with both Massa and Fernando Alonso.
"Felipe has been part of Ferrari for almost a decade and together with us, he has grown as a driver and as a man, going through some very difficult times as well as giving us moments of great happiness," Domenicali said. "We wanted to show proof of stability for the future, believing in the worth of a driver pairing that is without equal in terms of talent, speed and its ability to work together for the good of the team."
