Felipe Massa claims it is “almost impossible” for Rio de Janeiro to host the Brazilian Grand Prix next season.
Earlier this month, the country’s president Jair Bolsonaro announced the race would leave its historical home at Interlagos for a new venue to built in Rio.
Sao Paulo governor Joao Doria was quick to respond, promising to do all he could to keep F1 at the circuit with the news later following that the council would not allow the track to be privately sold.
Massa, a native of Sao Paulo, also has his own doubts about the proposed venue change.
“First of all, when I heard it the first time it was very strange,” the current Formula E driver told Motorsport Week.
“I just heard our president saying on Twitter that in Rio de Janeiro they will build a new track next year.
“I said that this will never happen. 2020, building the track in eight months, even one year. You cannot say impossible, but almost impossible. I was really, really surprised.”
The following year in 2021 would be more likely according to Massa but again he hopes it would be done for the right reasons.
“There are so many things you need to do in Rio such as improving the city. That is more important than putting the money into the track,” he said.
“If it’s in the private point of view then yes, that is nice to have.
“A new track is always a fantastic feel so now we need to understand the contract, we need to understand everything around that.
“What I can say is that I always welcome Rio as an important city for the track. I don’t like the area that they are going to build the track.”
Nevertheless: “I will miss Interlagos because it is one of the best races,” the two-time winner at the circuit added.
“We always have incredible races. Overtaking, the show, enjoyment from the drivers.
“If it’s an important thing for the country, it’s welcome but we’ll wait and see how it’s going to happen. I’m still a bit surprised but let’s wait and see.”
