Massa keeping an open mind about F1 future

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Felipe Massa is a happy man this year at Williams and isn't feeling the need to retire just yet from Grand Prix racing.

At the end of last season, the Brazilian decided to call it a day on his career at the pinnacle of motorsport before answering Williams' call to extend his stay one more year after the team released Valtteri Bottas to Mercedes.

Massa says he is enjoying racing F1's new-spec cars and is open to staying on at Williams for 2018.

"I'm relaxed, there's no pressure and I'm just trying to enjoy it," he told Motorsport.com.

"I was doing the same [last year], but I don't know, maybe things change for better and the way I feel and the way I'm working is quite relaxed.

"I'm sure I can do a really good job. I feel things are going well. I like this car, it's a lot more close to my driving style.

"I'm happy with the car, the way I'm driving, the way I'm feeling and the work I'm doing with the team. The most important thing is trying not to lose points."

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As for the future, the 36-year-old isn't setting anything in stone, at least not yet.

"I'm not considering anything, to be honest," he said.

"I just enjoy myself race by race and we see what is going to happen. I have no idea what is going to happen."

"If I have the opportunity to stay in the direction I am or the direction I think is correct for me, I stay. Otherwise, no."

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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.