Felipe Massa Updates Martin Brundle on Legal Battle Over 2008 F1 Title
Felipe Massa has provided an update regarding his ongoing legal case related to the 2008 F1 World Championship. He expresses optimism about achieving justice in the matter.
Background of the Case
Massa is pursuing £64 million in damages from former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, Formula 1, and the FIA. The claim concerns the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, known as the 'Crashgate' scandal, which Massa believes cost him the world title.
“Looking forward for the justice,” Massa stated. “I don’t deserve what happened to me to anybody.”
Details of the Scandal
During the Singapore race, Renault's Nelson Piquet Jr. deliberately crashed to induce a Safety Car, aiding teammate Fernando Alonso in winning. Ferrari’s pit stop for Massa during the Safety Car was poorly executed, causing him to finish outside the points.
Massa claims that Ecclestone knew the crash was intentional and that the FIA failed to investigate, which he believes was to protect F1's image. He argues that prompt action could have led to race cancellation or results being amended, potentially crowning him world champion instead of Lewis Hamilton.
Current Status
Massa, aged 44, is seeking damages for breach of contract or duty. His legal team asserts that if the misconduct had been addressed immediately, the outcome of the championship might have been different.
Interview with Martin Brundle
On the grid ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Massa told Sky Sports F1’s Martin Brundle, “We are waiting for the court's decision, and I believe justice will prevail.”
Summary
Felipe Massa is pursuing legal justice over the 2008 F1 scandal that he claims deprived him of the world title, emphasizing his hope for a fair resolution.