Felipe Massa, one of the most veteran F1 drivers had just announced his retirement at the end of this F1 season. Massa even wiped away a tear while making the announcement as he received a huge round of applause in a press release scheduled by Williams, the F1 team Massa was a part of, last September 1.
Although it appears that the pilot negotiated with Williams renewal, and even with other drivers, Massa will end his career in F1 at the end of 2016. "I more nervous now than in all my race. After 27 years of career, since I started in karts at 15, this is my last season in F1. Thanks to everyone who has been around me and follow me in my career." Massa said at the press release.
Among his words he has also been thankful to Williams and the staff who work there, noting that they helped him somuch. Massa leaves the premier class with 11 grands prix wins, 41 podiums and 16 pole positions, but no world championship. Therefore bittersweet for fans of the Brazilian driver feeling that Massa, one of the most likeable man in the sport's history, deserves one.
Massa almost had the World championship back in 2008 where he lost in the most agonising way to Lewis Hamilton. The Brazilian F1 driver Massa thought he was world champion as he crossed the line in his Ferrari. His father as well as some audiences celebrate manically in the Ferrari pit but official time shows otherwise and he was beaten by just a few second.
The press release was held at the Italian Grand Prix to celebrate and imitate the announcement of Michael Schumacher to also retire which Felipe Massa claimed as the event that opened doors of opportunities for him. The decision has set off rumors about the future people that would replace Massa. Among the names being considered is that of Jenson Button, Felipe Nasr, and Sergio Perez.
Massa's seat at Williams remains free for other pilot as of the moment, meanwhile deputy team principal Claire Williams express her sadness about the announcement saying "It's a very sad, emotional day. This is a big decision Felipe has come to and he was terribly nervous before he came out here".
It is not known if Massa will choose to race in another category engine or just hanging his racing suit forever.
See Now: OnePlus 6: How Different Will It Be From OnePlus 5?
