Ferrari backing boosts Felipe Massa

Felipe Massa has thanked Ferrari for publicly ending speculation that they were looking to ditch him.

Although the Brazilian already has a contract for 2012, he has endured a poor season - he is sixth in the standings and has finished no higher than fifth in races - sparking rumours that the team could axe him at the end of this term.

But Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has confirmed that Massa will be staying while team boss Stefano Domenicali said he is looking for the 30-year-old to "fight back" next season.

"From my point of view, it is important that I have the full support of the team behind me, which is always very positive," Massa said. "I know next year will be a very important one for the whole team, given that this season did not go as well as expected."