Ferrari expectations On Massa increases

March 14th, 2013 (F1plus/J. Polychonis).- Ahead of the first race in the 2013 season, Felipe Massa has admitted to an increase of expectation from his employers, Scuderia Ferrari.

Massa, speaking to F1plus.com, stated:

“Yeah, I think so (that the expectations are higher). When you put things in the right direction for sure the expectation is higher over yourself.”

Despite the fact that in-house pressure on Massa appears to have escalated, the Brazilian seems to have improved in confidence ahead of the season nonetheless. Much of this new found confidence has been derived from both personal and team improvements in the second half of 2012.

“I think the second half of the season was very good for me even if we didn’t win any races. I think for what the car was able to do I think it did a very good job in the second part and I think the second part was good preparation for this season.”

Further providing a boost to Massa’s confidence is the limited changes in car regulations heading into 2013. As a result, cars are somewhat similar to last year, which is something that he sees as important to his performance.

“The car is more or less in the same direction in terms of rules and I think that can be very important for me as well to start a better season and to have a completely different championship all season from the beginning to the end. – I’m really confident.”

On-track action begins tomorrow, with Free Practice One beginning at 12:30 local time.