Felipe Massa has issued a swift rejoinder to championship challenger Lewis Hamilton's claim that it will be the Brazilian feeling the brunt of the pressure when his home race at Interlagos crowns the 2008 title.

"The pressure from the fans only helps. It's always better to have it," the Ferrari driver said as he touched down from a flight in Sao Paulo, his native city and the scene of next Sunday's Brazilian grand prix.

Massa, 27, won the Interlagos race in 2006, and he was similarly strong last year.

"I've always liked racing at home," he explained. "You can absorb everything positive from the fans and that helps you do your best."

The Brazilian driver also replied to news that his British rival Hamilton consulted with celebrity magician Uri Geller, who claims to have physic powers, about how to go about sewing up the 2008 title.

"I met him and discussed the power of the mind," Geller, 61, is quoted as saying by the Daily Star newspaper.

Massa said: "It doesn't help with the driving, but if it makes you calmer, if it helps your preparation, then it's valid."

Massa admits his chances of beating Hamilton to the title next Sunday, with the McLaren driver needing only to finish fifth, are small.

"The important thing is to always keep up your hopes and do your best, which for me means to win the race.

"Perhaps it will not be enough, but it is the only thing I can control, so I intend to try to achieve it," Massa said.

Source: GMM