Massa: 'In no hurry to talk about 2018'

Felipe Massa's motivation is intact as he tackles a summer which will likely determine what shall be in store for next season.

Of things had gone according to his initial plans, Massa would probably be lingering on a Brazilian beach somewhere, between perhaps a commitment to Formula E which he thought of joining for 2017 before Williams pulled him back into the F1 fray.

Not only had the 36-year-old not regretted his decision, he is actually contemplating another extension of his stay at the pinnacle of motorsport.

"Maybe, yes, I mentioned that some weeks ago, yes, " he said in an interview with Formula1.com.

"Things are going well. I feel very competitive, as I like the car that I am driving. I love the new rules.

"For my driving style everything works very well - the only thing that has to be sorted out is the ‘luck issue’! (Laughs) So I don’t see any point not carrying on."

Massa was on course for a win in Baku - Lowe

Indeed, the last four races have been riddled with misfortune, with punctures in Russia and Barcelona, and crash in Canada through no fault of his own and a mechanical failure in Baku.

Despite the frustrations, Felipe is willing to hang on to F1 next year, although not at any cost.

"Having a team that I believe is correct for me. A team that can give me a competitive car - that can make me feel good. Then I stay on. I don’t want to stay not being happy and not being competitive."

Massa considers however that it is still too early to plan for next year.

"I am not in a hurry. I enjoy my situation race by race - and then the time will come to make the talking. I am sure it will not take long."

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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.