Alonso Did Not Accept Massa's Karting Invitation

Felipe Massa's karting event the past weekend would have been a perfect opportunity for him to get closer to new teammate Fernando Alonso and build a great collegial relationship ahead of a tough season in 2010. Since the Spaniard took plenty of time to get closer to the mechanics and engineers at Ferrari's headquarters in Maranello over the past week, it would have been only natural to do the same as far as his future teammate is concerned.

However, as confirmed by Massa, the 2-time world champion declined his invitation to take part in the charity event at Florianopolis, despite the fact that plenty of F1 and IndyCar competitors had already announced their presence at the karting track. Although he didn't received an explanation for his refusal, Massa revealed he will continue to invite Alonso at the annual charity event until he finally accepts.

“I invited Alonso to come here. Not only this year, but also in previous years. I hope he sees it is an interesting competition and that next year he comes,” Massa was quoted as saying to Spanish news agency EFE.

Despite the several voices in the F1 to argue that Massa's relationship with Alonso will be a fiery one – given the history between them in recent years – the Brazilian insisted that they will make a great team in 2010. However, he did make it very clear that losing his status within the team will not be subject to change in the near future.

“I don't think Alonso changes anything on my side or within Ferrari. Alonso is a great driver, everybody knows that. I believe we can be the best pairing in the championship,” added the Brazilian driver.

Alonso will only come to Maranello as an official Ferrari driver starting January 1st, when he will start preparation for the 2010 season.