Massa and Schumacher victorious in Brazilian karting challenge

A special weekend for Felipe Massa, back at racing after his long absence after his incredible accident in Budapest on 25 July. The Ferrari driver was the highlight at the "International Champion Challenge", the competition, which has been organised by Massa himself in Florianopolis, Brazil, for several years.

Felipe, third in the first race after a beautiful performance from the eleventh position on the grid, won the second race, held today afternoon, after he had gained the sixth starting position. After loosing two positions at the start the Ferrarista closed the gap and passed the leader, his fellow countryman Vitor Meira, on the last laps. Michael Schumacher crossed the line second in the first race, gaining the trophy with 42 points, thanks to the overall result from both races. Michael was ahead of Felipe (36 points) and Meira (26) in the overall standings.

"This was a fantastic event, maybe the most important kart event in the world," Felipe said after the race. "I demonstrated to be competitive like before the accident and that makes me happy. I think that if there were still any doubts, today I gave the answer. In the end I had a fierce fight with Michael, who was slightly faster, but I made it."

Schumacher dominated the event also in 2007 and could repeat his win today: "It was like in the old days, with Felipe and me on the highest places on the podium: I'm very happy and proud of him. It was a wonderful race and a beautiful day for all of us who took part."