Big chapter in Massa's life over but journey continues

A loyal servant of Formula One hung his boots in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. And this time there is no return to F1 track, assured Felipe Massa.
His departure marked an end of an era and Formula One couldn't have found a better day to retire the official logo too.
In more aspects than one Massa's exit is an end of a period where traditional value-systems of sportsmanship and partnerships were appreciated by drivers.
And the Brazilian has said goodbye on a happy note. He fended away challenge from McLaren Honda's Fernando Alonso to steal the valuable one point for tenth finish. There wouldn't have been a better way to say farewell than to deny former Ferrari nemesis a top-10 finish.
"I am happy with the result. It was a great race from the beginning to the end. I am happy with the way it has finished," Massa said as he walked back to the Williams Racing hospitality area after winding up his last of F1 broadcast interviews.
Just after the finish, Massa did a final donuts act with his Williams car as legions of fans shouted 'Massa, Massa'.
"I was just trying to celebrate in front of the people and enjoy the moment with them. It was a way of saying thank you for all the people for following and supporting me all these years," Massa said.
On the tracks, Massa was also congratulated by champion Lewis Hamilton and Abu Dhabi Grand Prix winner Valtteri Bottas.
"I am very happy for my career. I am very lucky racing with great drivers and teams."
So what will he be missing the most?
"I will miss competing against the best drivers in the world," the 36-year-old said.
Massa, at 269 Grand Prix starts, has the sixth-most in the history of the sport. However, when asked about the next chapter in his life, Massa said that he isn't finished yet and will be burning rubber in some part of the world.
"I don't know. I have lots of time to think about it and many years in front of me. I will have great opportunity and will find nice things to do. I will keep racing somewhere. This is what I love to do."
Massa's shoes will be a tough act to fill for Williams Racing.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com