Felipe Massa not only did the most mileage – 101 laps – on the first day of the Jerez test, but also finished the day top of the timesheets on a good day of testing for Ferrari.
Massa’s time of 1:20.709 – set during the morning running – proved unbeatable, although the Brazilian is not reading to much into the relative performance at this stage of the pre-season testing.
“I am pleased with today,” said Massa. “I was able to run continuously, without losing any valuable time. All those kilometres helped me get to know the car better and especially the tyres, an area where we were able to try different things to those we did in Valencia. The fastest time? It doesn't mean anything, because we don't know what trim the other drivers were running.”
Massa’s car today, like those from the rival teams, carried a message of support for Robert Kubica, who was badly injured in a rallying accident at the weekend. “I am glad Robert is getting better,” Massa added. “It was nice that we all had a note for him on our cars and again I wish all the very best.”
In other Ferrari news, Autosport.com have today reported that Ford are suing Ferrari over the name chosen for their 2011 car. The name F150, chosen by Ferrari to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the re-unification of Italy, is also used by Ford as the model number a top-selling pick-up truck.
The American car maker is reportedly seeking unspecified damages and wants Ferrari to be blocked from using the trademark in the US.
Ferrari have today been referring to their 2011 car as the ‘Ferrari 150th Italia’, presumably in order to avoid legal action.
