Barrichello does not rule out returning to F1
Rubens Barrichello still thinks about Formula 1, and the Brazilian driver admits that he wouldn't be against a return, especially since he feels physically and mentally ready to face this challenge.
Rubens Barrichello was not retained by the Williams team at the end of last season and the Brazilian veteran had to find a seat elsewhere. He thus joined the North American IndyCar championship, finishing in an honorable 12th place in the drivers’ championship with his best result being a 4th place at Sonoma.
But what Barrichello would really like is to return to Formula 1, and that’s what he told the Brazilian publication Arena Sportv: « I had 19 years of great excitement and pure adrenaline. For me, I should have been there (in 2012). You can never say never. Michael Schumacher and Kimi Räikkönen came back. I think in life, you must have the dream to improve every day, so I can’t say no. »
The Brazilian driver also admitted to being surprised by the performances of the Finnish driver this year for his return after two years in the WRC: « When I saw Räikkönen return, I thought he would face the same difficulties as Schumacher, but he had a sensational year. He is third in the championship. He didn’t fight for victories but secured six podiums. »
The former Jordan, Stewart, Ferrari, Honda, Brawn, and Williams driver would see himself well suited to returning for a 20th season of Formula 1, and he believes he is ready to face the challenges that Formula 1 imposes, as racing in IndyCar in 2012 has allowed him to stay sharp and fit: « I say this (about Räikkönen, editor’s note) because I haven’t stopped (racing) and I went into a completely different championship; I have been more active. Physically and mentally, I would be prepared (for F1). »
So like Michael Schumacher and Kimi Räikkönen, Rubens Barrichello could well envision starting a “second” career in Formula 1 at 40.
