Chassis change means Massa likely to miss FP2

Felipe Massa is unlikely to play any part in Friday afternoon’s second practice in Belgium after heavily damaging his Williams in the morning’s opening session at Spa-Francorchamps.

Massa went off on his first flying lap after losing the rear of the car in Turn 7 (Malmedy), and though the Brazilian – who missed the last round in Hungary through illness – was unhurt, his car was not so lucky.

“We are having to change the chassis,” confirmed a Williams spokesperson. “It’s not a short job, but they are working as quick as possible.

“We will try to get some track time in FP2, but it is a long shot to be honest.”

That means the onus will be on Massa’s rookie team mate Lance Stroll to complete Williams’ Friday programme. The Canadian was 15th fastest in FP1.