Sao Paulo violence will keep Massa away from home

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Felipe Massa won't be returning to live in his home city anytime soon given Sao Paulo's stubbornly high crime rate and violence.

The Brazilian city's security issues were once again brought to light this week after members of Mercedes' team were attacked at gun-point on Friday while leaving the Interlagos track's vicinity.

Thieves targeting the F1 community are a frequent occurrence each year at the Brazilian Grand Prix unfortunately, and reflect Sao Paulo's sorry state of affairs.

Mercedes personnel held up at gun point in Brazil!

Massa, who retires from F1 at the end of the season says he has no intention of returning to the troubled city to live with his family.

"It is so sad not only for those who are having the problem but also for Brazilians. But it just shows how much the country needs to evolve," he said.

The Williams driver and veteran of 267 Grands Prix doesn't believe however that the latest incidents should encourage F1 to end its association with Brazil.

"We race in Mexico, we've raced in India, and I don't know if it's any more dangerous than there," he said.

"But it is a problem for the people in charge who need to give security for whoever is here.

"I love Brazil, but at the moment I will not go back (to live).

"My son is studying in Monaco, he speaks three languages which is important for his future. Maybe in the future I would love to return to a better and safer country," he added.

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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.