Williams Martini Racing driver Felipe Massa has described the British Grand Prix as a ‘Special Race’. The Brazilian joined Williams in 2014 after a long stint at Scuderia Ferrari, but he understands the significance of the race for Williams and what it means for British motor racing.
“It’s one of the oldest races on the calendar, so I’m really looking forward to what will be a special race,” said Massa. “As Williams’ home grand prix, it’s an important place for the team to get a good result, especially as we have so much history there.”
Massa has called the Silverstone track an ‘amazing track to drive’, with the circuit largely enjoyed by all the drivers because of it fast flowing nature and high-speed corners that utilises the aerodynamic nature of a Formula 1 car.
As the home race for Williams, Massa wants a good race in front of the home support. Williams have a huge following at the British Grand Prix and he veteran Brazilian wants the make the Williams fans proud.
“Silverstone is the home grand prix for the team, which is really special, and it’s truly an amazing track to drive,” said Massa.
Massa alludes to the British weather and how quickly it changes, which could create some exciting races, but the Williams drivers will want a dry race to suit the characteristics of their FW38 because of the low drag nature of the car means it does not usually perform that well when it is wet.
“Typically British, it’s a circuit where the weather changes very quickly! It can be wet, dry, or completely mixed – anything can happen, which we’ve seen many times over the last few years,” said Massa.
The British Grand Prix has been a staple of Formula One culture and Williams have had a long association with Silverstone and the British Grand Prix. Massa believes it is important for Williams to have a strong race especially because of the history that Williams have had there.
Williams have been very successful at Silverstone but have not won since 1997, Jacques Villeneuve last won for Williams at Silverstone but they have failed to capitalise on any opportunities to take victory in front of their home crowd.
