FELIPE Massa says Williams must be prepared for anything after pre-season testing began in Catalunya.

New regulations in Formula 1 have seen the return of wider tyres and revamped aerodynamics, which will result in an increase in downforce.

Grove-based Williams unveiled their new FW40 model before the first session at the Circuit de Barcelona and Massa, who drove the car for the first time yesterday, is ready for the challenges ahead.

The 35-year-old, who announced his retirement from F1 last season only to re-sign for the team after Valtteri Bottas joined champions Mercedes, said: “I can’t believe we’re back racing again already.

“It’s amazing to have another year with the team – after my very short retirement!

“Everything is reset with the new rules this year, so it’s important we are ready for anything.”

Banbury-based Haas also revealed their new car – the VF-17 – ahead of the test.

They hope to build on the 29 points they scored in 2016 – the biggest haul for a new F1 team this millennium.