Kubica and Di Resta expected to drive in two-day test in Hungary this month; Massa remains in talks about new deal
Thursday 5 October 2017 08:54, UK
Felipe Massa has questioned the worth of Williams' proposed test for Robert Kubica and Paul di Resta in a 2014 car.
The Brazilian, who un-retired to rejoin Williams at the start of the year to replace the departing Valtteri Bottas, remains in talks with the team about extending his stay at Grove.
But Williams' decision on their 2018 driver line-up appears likely to be dictated by the anticipated two-day test later this month at the Hungaroring in which Kubica and then Di Resta, offering a benchmark to evaluate the Pole's speed and fitness form as the 32-year-old seeks a full-time return to the sport, are expected to drive a 2014 Williams.
"Williams know 100% what I can give to the team," responded Massa. "If you do a test with a car that is four years old it is completely different, you cannot evaluate too much.
"It doesn't change anything for me."
It's reported that Kubica will first run the Williams at Silverstone next week in order to acclimatise himself with the car.
"I don't even know if it is true, the test or not," admitted Massa.
Williams are currently one of only four teams yet to confirm their line-up for next season.
If Massa is retained, 2018 would mark his fifth season with Williams and his 16th in F1.
"I am pretty relaxed," Massa said. "I am enjoying and trying to do the best l can. I don't know what is going to happen next year but l am quite relaxed. I am quite keen to do another season, l think l can give a lot to the team - like l did already. I think I can do another year but the team will decide.
"I am talking with the team about next year and we are in discussions. We don't have a deadline but it would be good to have a decision before the race in Brazil."
Massa was given an emotional farewell at his home race at Interlagos a year ago having previously announced his retirement. But Bottas' move to Mercedes paved the way for an unexpected return and the veteran has proven a match for newcomer Lance Stroll this year, narrowly outscoring the rookie by 33 points to 32 so far.
But Stroll, who brings bountiful sponsorship to the team, is certain to be retained, leaving Williams' choice for the remaining seat between Massa and Kubica with Di Resta, currently Williams' reserve driver, still an outside shot.
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