P3 in Italy

As the checkered flag flew and the MM2 entered parc fermé, none of us could believe it. Even as the trophies were handed out, the champagne was sprayed and the interviews were conducted, none of us could believe it. After 33 long, grueling races, we have finally reached the podium.

Felipe Massa qualified 7th and Pastor Maldonado 18th. Maldonado’s day ended quickly on lap 17, when he entered turn 6 at too fast of a pace, spun out and hit the barrier, marking his third consecutive retirement. Massa moved up the field quickly, overtaking Daniel Ricciardo, Giedo van der Garde and Marcus Ericsson. Upon passing Ericsson, Massa entered the podium position, holding off a late charge by Ericsson and Fernando Alonso to claim the first podium for Manor Mercedes.

The Manor garage was alive in jubilation as Massa crossed the line, as the team huddled together and jumping around in celebration. An emotional macus16 stated, “We’ve had a couple of tough weekends the past few race but we’ve turned it on its head and we’ve secured our first ever podium. Congratulations to everyone at Manor we are a team and we can all enjoy this one together.”

On the podium, an excited Massa remarked, “This is unbelievable. We have worked for so long, so hard, and finally, we are here on a podium. I can’t thank the boys enough for all their hard work, Pastor, I’m sad to see him retire, but I know he’ll be proud of this moment as well!” Maldonado, of course, was definitely as elated, stating, “I’m disappointed in myself for taking us out of the race, but I hope our fortunes turn up once this European phase ends after this race. I’m very happy for Felipe, though, and the guys for putting this car on the track each and every week. For now, it’s time to party!”

The full race results can be viewed here.

Next week, Manor hopes to continue the run as the Model F1 World Championship moves from Europe to Asia for the Singapore Grand Prix.