He returned to Sauber for a two-year stint and was then confirmed as Rubens Barrichello’s replacement at Ferrari for the 2006 season.
Massa spent eight years racing for the Scuderia, winning 11 races and just missing out on the 2008 drivers’ title to Lewis Hamilton.
He then switched to Williams and has scored five podiums for the team so far. Massa is currently 10th in the 2016 drivers’ standings.
“I must start by especially thanking my wife and my father, my whole family, my manager Nicolas and all the people who have supported me throughout my career,” Massa said on the announcement.
“Thank you to God for giving me the opportunities I have had in life and, above all, for protecting me. A huge thank you as well to everyone I have worked with over the years.
“Every team I have been a part of has been a special experience, and not only in Formula 1. I have so many great memories over the years and thank everyone in all the teams I have come through to help me get to where I am today.
“My career has been more than I ever expected and I am proud of what I have achieved. Finally, it is a great honour to finish my career at such an amazing team as Williams Martini Racing.
“It will be an emotional day when I finally conclude my Formula 1 career with my 250th Grand Prix start in Abu Dhabi.”
His announcement kicks off the 2017 driver market, with a seat opening up at a competitive team. Felipe Nasr, Sergio Perez and Jenson Button have all been linked to Williams.