Massa watching Formula E but in no hurry to join the fray

©RichardMille

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Felipe Massa is keeping a close eye on Formula E but insists he has no intention in joining the all-electric series in the near term.

The 36-year-old Brazilian closed the curtain on his F1 career at the end of last season after fifteen years in Grand Prix racing.

Massa, who showed an interest in Formula E following his first retirement from F1 at the end of 2016, says he is eager to race on a full-time basis in another series providing he can fight for race wins wherever he chooses to go.

Felipe Massa will live his life after F1 with no regrets

"For sure I'm trying to understand what is going to be the situation in this moment and I don't know yet," Massa said.

"I don't think I will race in Formula E because it's just starting now and most of the teams have their drivers.

"I want to race in the championship where I believe I can be on top, fighting for the races, for the victories and where I can be fighting for the championship.

"So I will prepare myself to find the right car, the right team and to start well in the season."

While he likely won't be seen in the burgeoning series in the near future, Massa would be open to a one-off shot if a good opportunity comes his way.

"If I had an opportunity to do a few races in the right way then ok, but I don't know if I would have the opportunity.

"So, the championship is starting and for sure I'm not interested to take the seat of a driver just to be there. I think I need the championship and myself in the right way."

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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.