The world of F1 pays tribute to Sid Watkins
Professor Sidney Watkins may not have been the most well-known figure in Formula 1, but his passing has deeply affected the members of the Formula One Circus. Throughout the day, tributes have poured in.
For many, it is his contribution to Formula 1 in particular, but also to motorsport, that stands out. It is true that he is responsible for the majority of the safety improvements made to F1, whether for drivers, track marshals, or even spectators. It is he who introduced the famous Safety Car and the presence of a helicopter on circuits, something that seems perfectly normal to today’s fans but wasn’t the case in the past.
« It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Professor Sid Watkins. His contribution to safety in Formula 1 was enormous. Many drivers and people involved in Formula 1 owe their lives to him, » highlights Christian Horner, head of Red Bull Racing.
He saved more lives than anyone else. He will be missed by many people. He was at the British Grand Prix, in the paddock, and there was no one to say anything negative about him. Like everyone, he surprised some people, but it had to be done, says Jackie Stewart.
If the fact that Sid Watkins was one of the iconic figures of F1 was very well expressed by Ron Dennis, (read ‘Le Prof Sid Watkins nous a quittés’), the human side of this British neurosurgeon who roamed the paddocks for no less than 26 years was also highlighted in the various tributes paid to him throughout the day.
« Professor Sid Watkins had become a very good friend over the years. He was one of the greatest figures in the sport, who slowly changed its nature with the improvement of safety. He was passionate about motor racing in all its aspects and tried to ensure safety at all levels, whether in clubs or in national competitions. He will be sorely missed, » reacted Adrian Newey.
Sir Frank Williams had a special connection with Sid Watkins, not only because of Ayrton Senna’s passing in 1994. “My appreciation for Sid’s skills goes without saying. He took magnificent care of me when I spent 11 weeks in the hospital. After that, I was a human being who, even though no longer fully mobile, could continue to lead a normal and healthy life. I will be eternally grateful to him for that,” stated the head of the team with 114 victories.
« He was a very special human being. Particularly in his dedication to driver safety, which required perseverance to improve safety standards and the necessary medical care to save pilots’ lives, » adds Williams, joined in this regard by one of his former pilots, David Coulthard: « Sid Watkins was one of the best people I’ve met in my life. Completely selfless. The world has lost someone rare. »
It is also the human aspect of the doctor that Michael Schumacher will remember: « Sid combined expertise and heart, and he was always there for the drivers. Obviously, I remember Silverstone [1999] when he was immediately by my side. I also remember the time spent together in safety meetings over the years, where he was always so motivated to improve our safety. My thoughts are with his family. »
