Formula One:Felipe Massa is refusing to rule out the possibility of making a comeback at the season finale in Abu Dhabi. The Brazilian has been out of action for the past two months after suffering career-threatening injuries in July's Hungarian Grand Prix.
The 28-year-old had to undergo emergency surgery after suffering skull fractures and a brain concussion when he was hit on the helmet by a piece of flying debris during qualifying.
On the road to recovery, Massa took part in a brief karting test at the end of last month, while earlier this week he headed to Ferrari's headquarters in Maranello.
Over the course of the next few days he is expected to work with the Scuderia's simulator before putting in his first laps in a F1 car since the accident as he tests Ferrari's F2007.
Such is his recovery that Massa is refusing to rule out competing in the season-ending Abu Dhabi GP, although he concedes it's still too early to consider racing in his home grand prix in Brazil.
"It would be too close to the limit," Massa told the Gazzetta dello Sportnewspaper when asked if he'll be in Brazil. "We'll see for Abu Dhabi, we'll need the FIA's authorisation. It depends on this test.
"I perfectly remember how to drive. My worry isn't to immediately get a good lap time, but just to run again. In any case you need a good car and a good set-up."
Speaking about his accident and the severity of his injuries, Massa admits he was lucky to walk away.
"The damage could have been very serious and, considering the way I feel now, I have no doubt: I was very lucky," he said.
"I've often seen again the crash on TV and also myself with the injured eye immediately after. It's shocking, but I was asleep and couldn't feel anything."
The Brazilian, who will remain at Ferrari next season after president Luca di Montezemolo opted to sack his team-mate Kimi Raikkonen to make space for Fernando Alonso, also welcomed the Scuderia's decision to sign the Spaniard.
"He's a really good driver. We'll be a good pairing and I hope to finish in front of him!"