No surprise to see Massa take Turkish Grand Prix, says Todt

FERRARI boss Jean Todt claims it was no surprise to see Felipe Massa step out of Michael Schumacher’s shadow to win for the first time in the Turkish Grand Prix.

Massa’s road to the top has been a rocky one and he was dropped by Sauber after just one season in 2002, before being rescued by a Ferrari testing deal.

The 25-year-old Brazilian, who is managed by Todt’s son Nicolas, repaid Ferrari’s faith with a consummate victory in Istanbul on Sunday. It was his 14th race for Ferrari, the 66th of his career.

While few in the paddock expected his pole position, let alone his win, Ferrari managing director Todt was not shocked.

He said: “After 14 races he is third in the championship, so he did not score 62 points just by winning the race. He had 52 before the race, he now has 62 after he won.

“He was already third in the championship, so for those with open eyes he is a good driver.

“I confirm that I always had the feeling that Felipe was a very talented driver. That is why we contracted him a few years ago and we are very happy to have him with us.”

Massa became the second first-time Formula One winner in as many races following on from Jenson Button’s triumph in Hungary.

Button claims his maiden win has not changed him as a person or a driver, but Todt expects a different response from Massa. “It was a very good weekend for him because he had his first pole and his first win.

“So he will probably be even more dedicated to help the team to fight for both championships — even if he was already well dedicated. He is a very good team player.”

However, Massa’s win has done little to improve his chances of a race drive next season, with Ferrari’s decision depending on Michael Schumacher.

The seven-time world champion is mulling over retirement, with a decision expected in Italy in two weeks, and Massa is likely to race only if Schumacher hangs up his helmet.

Speculation over that decision has dogged Ferrari all season and Todt delivered a stinging rebuke to Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone’s claim that Schumacher has already decided to retire.

He said: “I tell you something — Bernie Ecclestone does not have a single element to judge what Michael has decided.

“The important thing is that Michael is driving, but Bernie does not have any idea whether Michael will be driving in the future or not.

“He is such a clever guy that he has his feelings. Even being clever, sometimes you have good feelings and sometimes you have bad feelings.”