Massa: Williams back to the fight

Editor

An emotional Felipe Massa made his long awaited return to pole position on Saturday, leading a Williams lock out of the front row of the Austrian grid.

Although Williams showed impressive pace in the proceeding practices, it was uncertain whether that would carry through into qualifying. It did.

Valtteri Bottas held provisional up until the last minute when Massa crossed the line with a 1:08.759 to beat his team-mate by 0.087s.

“I am so happy with what has happened today, with us, our team, it was such a great moment,” said Massa.

“It has been a long time since I had my last pole position so this is such an incredible moment.

“For sure we need to concentrate on the race tomorrow as it will be a very important race for us. But this is a great moment and I am in the best place to be is here, first place.”

Although Saturday’s pole position was the 16th of Massa’s career, it was his first since Brazil 2008 and a further sign that Williams’ recovery is well underway.

The former Ferrari driver added: “It is something I’ve had the chance to be many times before in my career and here I am again now.

“After a long time that I couldn’t be on this place I hope this is just the beginning of great possibilities.”

But while the 32-year-old may be celebrating his qualifying joy, he acknowledges that there is still a great deal for the team to do, not only for Sunday’s Austrian GP but in the future.

“The race is tomorrow but I am so happy, not just for me but I think it is similar feelings as what Williams feel.

“Williams had an incredible career in the past and now they are back to the top, back to the fight.

“There’s still a lot to do but the work is going on that line.

“I am so pleased for me and for Williams Martini as well.”

Related Links
Massa Leads Williams Lock-Out
Qualy Day At The Red Bull Ring