Felipe Massa is contesting the 2008 Formula 1 World Championship due to the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix. Dubbed ‘Crashgate’, the controversy occurred when Nelson Piquet Jr was ordered by Renault to crash on purpose to aid Alonso in his bid for the race win. The FIA found out about the Renault team orders after the season and banned the French team from the sport for two years.

Felipe Massa, however, claims that the FIA knew about the incident after the then-head of Formula One, Bernie Ecclestone admitted to it in an interview recently. After this, Massa began a legal process to overturn the results of the race which would hand the title to the Brazilian. The current head of F1, Stefano Domenicali is on the other side of the legal battle. 

Domenicali was with Ferrari throughout Massa’s time with the team and assumed the position of team Principal in 2008. Under his leadership, Ferrari won the constructors’ title but Massa missed out on winning the Drivers’ title. Many speculated that the relationship between the Brazilian and Stefano Domenicali must have soured due to the ongoing clash, but the retired driver assures the press that this is not the case. 

Stefano is a big friend. I always talk to him, apart from everything that happened, so there's nothing really to say about that.

Felipe Massa as reported by autosport.com

Massa’s appearances as an ambassador for the FIA were severely hindered, as he claims he was told not to come to the race in Japan. The 11-time Grand Prix winner had shown some initial reluctance to visit his home Grand Prix in Sao Paulo as well. But to the delight of the enthusiastic crowd, he decided to come to the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Felipe Massa reasserts passion for Formula 1

Felipe Massa was hesitant to make an appearance at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Due to his ensuing battle for the 2008 title, F1 did not invite him to the race, and Massa was considering omitting the race.

However, his passion for the sport and the enthusiasm of the fans in Brazil swayed his decision, and he did visit Interlagos for the Sprint weekend.

I’ve always been passionate about F1 so I’m here to enjoy it.

Felipe Massa as reported by Gabrial Araujo on twitter.com

The 42-year-old Brazilian is currently seeking help from Lewis Hamilton in his fight for what would be his only title if he succeeds in his bid. Hamilton has not yet spoken out about the situation, and he could potentially be apprehensive due to the 2008 title being his maiden championship. 

In case you missed it:

• WATCH: “Why the f**k am I so unlucky?” Charles Leclerc has an outburst on team radio after hitting the barriers on the formation lap in Brazil
• WATCH: $500 million worth Mr. Beast makes a special request to George Russell ahead of the Brazilian GP

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