Massa and Ferrari

UPDATE Felipe Massa is the leading candidate to join Michael Schumacher at Ferrari next year, should – as speculation insists – Rubens Barrichello move on. Managed by Jean Todt's son Nicolas, the young Brazilian said at Magny Cours that he would definitely accept an offer.

''I'd go there immediately,'' the 24-year-old – who tested for the scarlet team throughout 2003 – told La Gazzetta dello Sport in France. ''I'm not sure there is the possibility right now.''

Sauber, presently Ferrari powered, has been bought by BMW and the Hinwil seats would be coveted for season '06. Massa continued: ''I feel ready to race for a top team.''

06/18/05 Brazil's Felipe Massa may test a Ferrari before the end of the year. The 24-year-old, who spent a year as Maranello tester in 2003, is presently Ferrari-powered (Sauber) and managed by Jean Todt's French son, Nicolas. He reportedly has a long term contract with the Scuderia, and is seen by some as being 'groomed' as an heir to the throne.

Rubens Barrichello is already linked with a BAR switch, and seven time world champion Michael Schumacher is under contract only to the end of 2006. Massa, from Sao Paulo, has consistently outgunned teammate and 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve in 2005. ''I know that people think 'oh, Villeneuve is slow','' he said, ''but I hope they might also say that I am quick.'' GMMf1NET