The accident bears similarities to an accident last weekend at Britain's Brands Hatch circuit when Henry Surtees, the son of former F1 world champion John Surtees was killed during a race when he was struck by a wheel.

The freak accident occurred when driver Jack Clarke's car hit a tyre wall and a wheel came off, hitting Surtees on the head.

Barrichello, who visited Massa at the circuit's medical centre, said he thought both incidents were a clear sign that there was a need for improved safety in motorsport.

'It is not a coincidence something happened right now. In the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers Association) we talked quite a lot about it yesterday - and something needs to be done,' said the Brazilian.

Ferrari are expected to release an update on Massa's condition Sunday.