March 11, (THEWILL) – Former Ferrari driver Felipe Massa has launched legal action against Formula One, ex-supremo Bernie Ecclestone, and the FIA governing body. The 42-year-old Brazilian is seeking recognition as the 2008 world champion and substantial financial compensation.
According to court documents provided by Massa’s representatives, the estimated financial losses from missing out on the title by a single point to Lewis Hamilton amount to £64 million ($82 million), plus interest. This figure comprises the difference in salary, sponsorship and commercial opportunities, as well as a £1.7 million bonus he would have received from Ferrari.
Massa stated: “I always said that I would fight until the end. As FIA and FOM decided to do nothing, we will seek the correction of this historical injustice through the courts. The matter is now with the lawyers, and they are fully authorised to do whatever is necessary so that justice is done for the sport.”
The crux of Massa’s case revolves around the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix crash involving Nelson Piquet Jr, which later unravelled into a major scandal. Massa claims the FIA breached its own regulations by not immediately investigating the incident, which benefited Fernando Alonso’s race win. Attempts to resolve the matter amicably have been unsuccessful, prompting the legal action.
Vieira Rezende Advogados, Massa’s Brazilian law firm, emphasised: “Recent events highlight the continued relevance of issues of transparency and integrity in Formula One, and it is clear that serious work is needed to restore its credibility and secure its long-term future.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
