'Williams not on Mercedes' level', insists Massa

40

It was a long haul session for Felipe Massa today, the Williams driver putting in a massive 168 laps to top the timesheets thanks to his morning effort on SuperSoft tyres.

Massa's mileage, which was equaled by Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel, amounted to two and half races with Williams focused on making up for last week's lost track time.

"I am so happy for the day, I don’t remember before doing a day with 168 laps in my career," the Brazilian told Sky Sports News.

"It was a lot of laps and l can feel it a bit on my body, but l am good. I feel in good shape in for the new season."

Despite the good performance which put Williams on the performance level enjoyed by Mercedes last week, Massa wasn't ready to say the Grove-based outfit was now in a position to rival the German squad.

"I don’t think we are on the same level as Mercedes. Mercedes have already shown incredible speed.

"But if we can fight podiums then that will be a great job. We will see where we are in Australia."

Massa touched once again on the subject of his team mate, Lance Stroll. While defending the 18-year-old for his mistakes, he also said he was happy to help him ease his way through.

"Lance needs to learn, he needs to understand the car and get more mileage. I am trying to pass on everything l can – definitely for the team but also for him – and just trying to make sure he is learning as quick as he can.

"If he is ready and he is doing a good job then it is for the team and for myself as well, as his teammate."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.