Patrese Unfazed by Risks
Riccardo Patrese is unconcerned about the dangers of returning to high power single-seater racing when Grand Prix Masters launches later this year
The new championship for over 45, ex-Formula One stars has successfully attracted big names including Patrese, his former teammate Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Emerson Fittipaldi and Alan Jones.
Patrese is unconcerned about the risks of driving a 600bhp single-seater racing car, which will begin testing in mid-October before the maiden event in Kyalami in November.
"I don't think there will be less than reasonable risks," Patrese told Autosprint. "After all my real passion is horse racing. From my experience, I can assure you that you risk a lot more on the back of a single thoroughbred than managing the power of 600 horses inside a cockpit."
"As far as I'm concerned, I'm going there with a spirit of curiosity, to enjoy myself and to meet many old friends. Then, once there, we'll see what the effective competitive level is.
"I believe in it. It's an interesting idea and everything is done in a serious manner. I've already signed the contract, which is a proper employment: in other words, it's not racing for charity."
The Italian also quipped that the series could consider a golf-style handicap system if the drivers who have continued racing, such as Stefan Johansson and Jan Lammers.
"That's true, those who never stopped racing could beat the more famous guys because they are more fit. Then I'll propose the use of a handicap system, like it's done in golfing," Patrese joked.
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