Massa Reunites with Ferrari F2008 at Goodwood Festival, Legal Challenge Looms
Former Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa made a triumphant return to the track driving the Ferrari F2008 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, a car pivotal in securing Ferrari’s last Constructors’ Championship in 2008. The Brazilian’s nostalgia was palpable as he navigated the hillclimb, recalling his victorious season that included five race wins.
“It’s just an amazing feeling to drive the 2008 car after a long time,” Massa stated, reflecting on his pride in that championship-winning season. “This was definitely my best year. It was also my last championship year, I would say,” he quipped, evoking laughter from interviewers.
Beyond the celebration, Massa is currently engaged in a legal battle involving the FIA and former F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone. His claim is rooted in the controversial ‘Crashgate’ incident from the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, where Nelson Piquet Jr’s deliberate crash allowed Fernando Alonso to secure a win, ultimately impacting the championship standings in favor of Lewis Hamilton.
Massa’s case is set for trial in October at the King’s Bench Division of the High Court. He seeks to have the championship title awarded to him, challenging the integrity of the original results. “I hope the correct thing happens, for justice,” Massa remarked, emphasizing his fight for recognition after 16 years.
Ecclestone himself recently commented on the incident, suggesting that the race should have been canceled under the circumstances: “That means it would never have happened for the world championship standings. Then Felipe Massa would have become world champion and not Lewis Hamilton.”
As preparations for the upcoming trial intensify, Massa remains steadfast in his pursuit of vindication regarding a season that profoundly shaped his career.
