F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Massa acknowledges Lowe's big contribution to Williams

Felipe Massa believes the sum of Williams' parts has produced a team that is better 'connected' under the new guidance of Paddy Lowe.

Lowe left Mercedes last winter to return to his former outfit, and the tech boss has brought together teams and departments at Grove in a more integrated way.

"I think to be honest what I saw in this team this year is completely different to what I saw in the last three years," Massa said on Thursday in Barcelona.

"In terms of the mentality for developing areas that we need to develop in. I see the team in a much more connected way of working together, in so many different areas, including aerodynamics.

"I believe we can have much better development during the season. The mentality, the working, is definitely completely different than what's happened in the last three years.

"I really believe that the working now is a lot more correct, intelligent, and a very good connection."

Where is everyone on power unit component use?

The Brazilian was quick to acknowledge Lowe's input and contribution.

"A lot - Paddy, [aero chief] Dirk de Beer, so many other people that were inside [the team] but something was missing.

"It was not really connected, and I think now people are trying to improve so many different areas that it was a problem.

"And definitely we're still at the beginning, so many things we need to do it, but the working is much different."

Win the ULTIMATE TRACKDAY with F1i.com!

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.