F1: Massa says money not a factor in 2017 talks

Felipe Massa is adamant money will not be a deciding factor in any negotiations over a deal to stay in Formula 1 beyond this season.

Massa is out of contract with Williams at the end of this year, and while he is keen to stay with the team, there are no guarantees his contract will be extended. Approaching 250 grands prix, and in his 14th F1 season, Massa claims he is not focused on the financial package of a new contract, be it with Williams or another team.

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"I have never raced thinking about money," said Massa, speaking to Brazilian media outlet, UOL Esporte. "I have always raced thinking about having fun and getting the results. I believe that if I see there is a possibility to grow, to do a good job, money won't be the most important thing.

"I have made enough money to have a good life – I have made more money than I have ever imagined in my whole career, so there is no doubt this is not a main issue."

Ahead of the recent Austrian Grand Prix, Massa insisted he was in control of his own destiny, and that "F1 is what I'm really planning to do."

Massa feels he still has plenty to offer a team, in particular given the major changes to the regulations due to come into force for next year.

"I am talking to other teams, and with Williams as well," added Massa. "Williams knows my work, and the team's evolution has a lot to do with the job I do inside the team. We cannot forget it.

"I have my experience, and I have showed I am a hard worker, back in the factory and on the track. It [2017] is going to be an year with a lot of changes, and my experience will count even more."

Originally on Autosport.com