Massa to continue his battle following Crashgate development.
Felipe Massa has stated that he will persist in his quest for recognition as the 2008 world champion, even after achieving an initial legal victory in the protracted 'Crashgate' case. A court recently mandated that FOM, the FIA, and Bernie Ecclestone cover a portion of the Brazilian's legal fees, but Massa emphasizes that this matter extends beyond financial concerns.
"My aim is to be acknowledged as a champion," he shared with Diario Sport. "What occurred to me is unjust in any sport."
Massa lost the 2008 championship to Lewis Hamilton by a mere point, with the manipulated outcome of the Singapore GP playing a significant role. "We were aware the race was fixed, but we discovered this in 2009, and there was no way to contest it," he explained.
"Once a driver is awarded the trophy and the season changes, the result is considered final – with the exception of doping cases."
However, Massa highlights statements from former F1 chief Ecclestone, who acknowledged that key individuals were aware of the scandal during the 2008 season but chose not to intervene. "They knew that the race was compromised and intentionally did not initiate an investigation," Massa asserted. "As a result, they deprived me of the chance to fight for my title."
The ex-Ferrari driver made a clear distinction between a fair loss in sports and what he perceives as inequality. "Sport is sport," he stated. "If your vehicle malfunctions, that's part of the game. Losing by a point is also part of sport. But what transpired in Singapore is not part of sport."
Massa remains optimistic that the reopened case will progress further. "I believe in justice," he remarked. "In this situation, we must prevail."
The 44-year-old confessed that the case has now taken precedence in his life. "At this point, my focus is solely on seeking justice for 2008," Massa stated.
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Massa to continue his battle following Crashgate development.
Formula 1 | Felipe Massa states that he will persist in his efforts to be acknowledged as the 2008 world champion, even after achieving a preliminary legal success in the (…)
