F1- Felipe Massa Ready to Return to the Competition in 2010

Ferrari driver Felipe Massa is preparing to return to Formula One next year. The Brazilian driver had suffered a serious accident during the Hungarian Grand Prix that left him hospitalized and out of the competition for the rest of the season. The accident occurred in July, during the final qualifying tests prior to the big event in Hungary. A rear spring fell off of the Brawn piloted by Rubens Barrichello and struck Massa’s helmet at 160 mph. Massa was immediately rushed to a nearby military hospital in Budapest, where he spent 10 days in the intensive care department. A steel plate was inserted into his skull above his left eye. Recently, however, Massa has attempted to begin preparations for next year’s competition. The pilot has taken a few turns in a 2007 Ferrari at a private track owned by the Italian team. Although regulations prevent any driver from testing a contemporary car, there are no prohibitions against using an outdated vehicle. Massa indicated that he was aware that his recovery was not yet complete; he also said that he would comply with all his doctors’ recommendations. Nevertheless, he said that he was very satisfied with the current condition of his health. Perhaps a return to his normal work environment will be beneficial; the 28-year-old pilot is slowly regaining his confidence. He does not, however, claim to be ready to finish competing in the current season. The Brazilian undertook the first of his driving tests last Monday. He did not report any discomfort while driving, but he did say that his return to driving would be a slow one; he would take all the necessary precautions to prevent a setback. The Ferrari staff, mindful of both the events on the tracks and Massa’s progression, told the media that Ferrari was very satisfied with the results of the pilot’s medical examinations. According to the staff, the results have been motivating for the young driver, and will hopefully help Massa gain further confidence in his Formula One career. After Monday’s tests, with an evident expression of pleasure, Massa stated that he felt good, as if he had never crashed. The pilot went on to mention that he did not feel strange at all while driving; he had no trouble with his eye and enjoyed the same energy and enthusiasm as always. He insisted that he did not perceive a major difference in his driving from before the accident. Meanwhile, the Scuderia has promised to provide all the support necessary for the Brazilian, who still hopes to return to the competition at the beginning of next season. If he returns, he will be driving alongside his new teammate and two-time world champion, Fernando Alonso. Massa will need to begin preparing himself now if he hopes to advance during next year’s competition. Injuries or no, the season will not be an easy one. Both Alonso and Massa will have to struggle to gain a title.