Magny-Cours, 13th July 2006

After securing his best ever Formula 1 result in Indianapolis a fortnight ago, finishing second behind Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro team-mate Michael Schumacher, Felipe Massa was back in the spotlight this afternoon in France, where he attended the official FIA Press Conference.

Reflecting on that United States GP result, the Brazilian reckoned the best aspect of the Scuderia's first one-two of the year was the boost it has given everyone in the company. "It is great for morale and an excellent result for the team as a while," he said. "Hopefully we can carry on in the same way, but I do not expect us to be as strong here as we were in the States. Here, I think Renault and McLaren will once again be fighting hard with us. This second part of the championship is going to be very tough."

Asked about Juan Pablo Montoya's quick decision to switch to NASCAR racing - the Colombian is replaced here at McLaren by tester, Pedro de la Rosa - Felipe admitted he was surprised. "But I have not raced in America, so I cannot really comment, other than to say he obviously knows his own situation and what suits him and I hope he finds success there."