Felipe Massa targeting Formula E after F1

ByAutoSport

Updated 01/09/2017 at 10:45 GMT

Williams driver Felipe Massa says he will move to Formula E if he does not stay extend his stay in Formula 1 next season.

Felipe Massa of Brazil and Williams walks in the Paddock before the Formula One Grand Prix of Great Britain at Silverstone on July 16, 2017 in Northampton, England

Image credit: Getty Images

The Brazilian retired from F1 at the end of last year but was persuaded to rejoin Williams, which freed up Vallteri Bottas to move to Mercedes.

Massa said earlier this year that he was keen to extend his stay in F1 to a 15th year.

He is believed to be one of a number of drivers on the team's shortlist, that includes Sergio Perez, to line up alongside Lance Stroll in 2018.

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When asked if he had any back-up plans if F1 is not an option next year, Massa said: "Yes, Formula E. But I don't know when."

Massa tested for Jaguar and spoke to the team about a 2016/17 drive before committing to Williams.

Autosport understands those conversations have continued, but are not something that is been pursued for the short-term.

Felipe Massa (Williams) - Belgium Grand Prix 2017

Image credit: Getty Images

"I did a test with them," added Massa. "When I decided to stop F1, I was talking with some teams and with Formula E.

"I wanted to see the car, I wanted to drive the car and see how it is. I did a test with them just to see how it is.

"You cannot compare [it to Formula 1]. It's completely different but it is still a competition.

"[There are] some great ideas for the future and the championship is growing.

"I think it's fantastic [that new manufacturers are entering], and I see a big future in that category for a driver, especially after F1."

Massa said he has yet to decide on his future, adding that he is motivated to compete in F1, but only if he has a competitive package.

"I need to analyse everything and then decide what is my option for next year and if the options I have are making me happy," he said.

"I feel that I am competitive. When you see you are competitive and are doing a good job in the car, that really motivates you.

"But it's true I don't want to be in F1 to be at the back, I want to have a proper job and this is part of my ideas for the future."

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