• German Grand Prix

Massa targeting first podium of the season

Felipe Massa has had a tough start to the season © Getty Images

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• News:
• Ferrari to retain same driver line-up in 2012
  

• Race:
• German Grand Prix

• Championship:
• FIA Formula One World Championship

• Drivers:
• Felipe Massa

• Teams:
• Ferrari

Felipe Massa is eyeing his first podium of the season at this weekend's German Grand Prix.

The Ferrari driver's best finish so far has been fifth on two occasions, but at Silverstone team-mate Fernando Alonso proved that the updated F150 Italia is now capable of winning races. Massa said the upgrades to the car had made a substantial difference and he is hoping to break into the top three this year.

"We brought a good amount of parts to Silverstone and it was the first track where we have managed to use the hard tyres well," he said. "We did a good job there, being competitive in all situations. Here we have another small update and I hope we can be on the pace of the best again this weekend.

"Two years ago, the last time we were here at the Nurburgring I finished third: in fact I have had many podiums with Ferrari at the German Grand Prix and I like this track, so even if the win is what we are always aiming for, another podium would be a good result on Sunday, given the strength of our opponents."

Earlier this week Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo said Massa's seat at the team was safe for 2012, but the Brazilian is not ruling out moving elsewhere after that.

"Next year yes for sure, as I have a contract until the end of 2012," Massa said. "After that, we will see and there is still some time before we have to think about what happens after 2012. I have been here six years, next year will make it seven and it is very good to be racing for Ferrari."

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