Interview with Nelson Piquet Jr, ING Renault F1 Team driver
As he met the Brazilian President in Brazilia, Nelson Piquet
Jr gave us his feelings following the 2008 ING Renault F1
Team driver line up.
Nelsinho, what are your feelings following the announcement
you will be an F1 driver with the ING Renault F1 Team in 2008?
It's hard to put into words. People don't see that behind
every young driver, there are a lot of years of hard work,
dedication and focus to make it to Formula 1. I have dreamed
of competing in Formula 1 since I was small, and I have finally
made it. It is the start of a new phase, and I can't wait
for the season to begin.
How important has your father been in your getting
this drive?
It would be unfair to all the people who have supported me
throughout my career to say that my success is down to one
person. My father has been, and will be, a great reference
point for me and his support was crucial to the early stages
of my career, all the way to GP2 Series. But to get into Formula
1, you need much more than a famous surname. Renault have
given me the chance to race for them, and that is because
I have the talent and potential to do so. The team knows how
we perform in the tests, what configuration the car is in,
and our character. That is what counts in Formula 1.
Your father is a three-time world champion. How will
you handle the inevitable comparisons?
Ever since I started racing, I have felt the pressure of being
Nelson Piquet's son. My father is a legend in the sport, and
that makes me very proud, just like it does for his many fans
around the world. If I am here today, it is because I have
the talent and have worked hard, with the right motivation,
to become an F1 driver. Now, I hope to give people plenty
of reasons to be proud of me.
Is it a good opportunity for you to start your F1
career with ING Renault F1 Team?
Probably the best one! ING Renault F1 Team is a top team,
they won two world championships and are determined to get
back on top. After one year with the team as a third driver,
I know everybody and feel very comfortable in the team, I
know the way they work and it's probably the best way for
me to start racing in Formula One.
What can we expect from your first season as an F1
driver?
Throughout my career, I have been very focused on achieving
the best possible results – and that's how I intend
to approach Formula 1 as well. I am confident that I can reward
the faith Renault has placed in me by being clear-headed about
the car's potential at each race, and working hard. I go to
every race aiming for the best possible result, but with my
feet firmly on the ground.
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