Massa hoping for competitive showing in Sochi

Williams driver Felipe Massa says he is hoping for a competitive outing at this weekend’s Russian Grand Prix at the Sochi Autodrom.

The Brazilian has failed to finish in the points in the last two races. In Singapore, he collided with Nico Hulkenberg while coming out of the pits which ultimately put him to the back of the field and was forced to retire due to a gearbox issue. In Japan, Massa and Ricciardo touched wheels on the opening lap resulting in punctures for both cars.

In last year’s race, Massa had a gearbox problem in qualifying meaning he had to start well down the order. He is hoping to make amends this weekend.

“Russia is a very nice track with a few long straights which makes it interesting for overtaking. The circuit has almost everything, starting with a straight and then moving into high-speed corners and then very slow corners in the middle sector.

Williams were strong in last year’s event as Valtteri Bottas came home third, behind the two Mercedes’.

“This makes setting up the car really important and the importance of downforce evident. I hope to make amends for qualifying last year and I’m confident we can have a competitive race.”