Massa’s poor form – his fastest lap was over a second off that of his
team-mate – has led to speculation that he may be replaced mid-season unless
he can rediscover his mojo, a move Ferrari would be loathe to make given
their emotional ties to a driver who almost died on their watch in Hungary
in 2009.
“We need to stay close to Felipe because it’s clear that he’s under pressure,”
Domenicali said. “I’ve asked his engineers to analyse the data on the car,
also, to reassure him.”
Domenicali could use some reassurance himself. The Italian is one of the most
widely liked and respected figures in the paddock.
But so far he has just one constructors’ championship, from his first season
as team principal in 2008, to show for his efforts. His tenure has been
characterised by almost constant change as he has sought to find the winning
formula. But time waits for no man.
Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo said before the start of the season that
he was not about to sack anyone. But unless things change his trigger finger
is likely to get increasingly itchy.
“We have fundamental issues,” Domenicali admitted before flying to Italy. “One
is the speed, and the other thing is the traction. Obviously the car will be
nearly identical [in Malaysia] because it’s next weekend, but we will try to
improve something in the set-ups. And then for China, Bahrain etc, we will
bring some updates. Hopefully, it will get better.”