Bahraini GP - Massa press conference - 9th March 18:25pm GMT

Felipe Massa has been part of the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro family for quite some time now, but today saw another first, his first press conference in the red colours of the team. "I have high expectations for this weekend," began the Brazilian. "This is where it starts for real as the talking stops and the racing begins and we will have a clear answer about where we stand." And where exactly did he think that was? "I am looking forward to driving a competitive car and I hope we will be fighting for the top place alongside Renault, McLaren and Honda." Massa is much more in the media spotlight now he is in a top team. "I got a very nice reaction to my joining Ferrari back home in Brazil and I regard this as a very big opportunity in my career. I intend to keep my feet on the ground and try and be as competitive as possible right from the start."

Massa is one new element in the line-up and, for everyone not just Ferrari, the V8 engine is another. "Our people have done a good job on the engine," reckoned Felipe. "And also on the rest of the package. Personally, I like the V8 because it naturally has a bit less power than the V10 which means you can be much more aggressive on the throttle pedal and that suits my style of driving."

Finally, the Scuderia's new driver was asked his opinion on once again being allowed to change tyres during the races this season." I think from a safety point of view it is very good and also it improves the show for spectators," he commented. "But we will have to wait and see what effect it has on the relative performance of the teams."