Felipe Massa confirmed at Sauber

[DNQ]

Well, Felipe Massa has officially been snapped up by Sauber for 2002, to replace Kimi Raikkonen.

The Red Bull Sauber Petronas team announced this afternoon that they have signed new sensation, Felipe Massa to take over from Kimi Raikkonen in the 2002 championship season. The 20 year-old Brazilian, the new Euro F3000 Series champion, impressed greatly during recent testing sessions with the Swiss outfit and is delighted to have been chosen for the job.

"I am delighted that I will be working with Team Red Bull Sauber Petronas next year,” he said. “I hope that I will be able to contribute to the team's success and help it to defend this year's outstanding position in the World Championship for constructors."

"By deciding on Felipe we have once again opted for a talented young driver,” added Peter Sauber. “He convinced us with his excellent performance during tests at Mugello, where he demonstrated his promising potential in a remarkable manner."

So, that ends all the speculation of the Sauber Number 2 seat. I am happy with this deal, because I remember last year posting that Felipe Massa is an F1 star of the future, so for once it looks as if my crystal ball is working. Sadly, though, I very much doubt Sauber can sustain their pace from this season into 2002.