Paddock Postcard from Interlagos 21 Oct 2007
The paddock at the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace in Interlagos may be due for a revamp in the future, but there is an endearing intimacy about it that appeals to many people. It is fun to intermingle, and literally to rub shoulders with returning friends.
Charismatic former champion Emerson Fittipaldi, the man who started Brazil’s F1 goldrush way back in 1969, was a welcome face this weekend, together with fellow double title winner Mika Hakkinen who was there in his role as Johnnie Walker’s ‘drink responsibly’ ambassador.
Alex Ribeiro, the former March F1 racer and FIA Safety Car driver, made his annual visit, together with ex-Formula Three star Maurizio Sandro Sala whose kids are now starting to race karts. Former Formula Two entrant Fred Opert also made the trek.
