Meeting with Ilario Pax, author of “Imola the day after”

Hello Ilario, could you introduce yourself in a few words?

Hello. Well, to sum it up, I would say that I am 45 years old, originally from Vaucluse and currently living in the Grasse region. I have no literary background to begin with. I work as a measurement technician in a large French industrial group. However, my passion for cars and racing led me to join the editorial team of a blog over 15 years ago. It was an activity that I pursued alongside my job and it also sparked my interest in writing.

You are the author of a fiction about F1, Imola the day after, can you explain how the idea of writing this fiction came to you?

On May 1st, 1994, I was in front of my television when Ayrton Senna was killed at the Tamburello corner. Those moments have remained etched in my memory. So much so that I still remember the chronology of events perfectly and even some of the commentators’ words. It was truly unreal and incredible, a cursed Grand Prix to such an extent, especially after 12 years without a fatal accident in racing.

I would be completely unable to tell you when this idea came to me. However, what I remember very well is feeling that I had to see it through, that I had something. It wasn’t easy and there were long moments of pause, but finally the book was released in March 2019. It was just a few weeks before the 25th anniversary of the Imola tragedy. I was probably not the only one wondering what would have become of Ayrton Senna if he had survived his accident. I simply pushed the reflection a little further by writing my version. Today, three years later, I still can’t believe it. I never could have imagined selling almost 3500 copies (and they still sell every day) while doing everything myself without any publisher. I also appreciate the numerous feedback that readers give me.

Have you ever been to Imola?

No, never. Maybe going there on May 1st, 2024 for the thirtieth anniversary would be a good idea.

Since when have you been a fan of F1? Which race made you start following this sport?

I haven’t missed a single race since the Brazilian Grand Prix in 1991. A race that greatly contributed to the legend of Ayrton Senna. However, at the time, we were not necessarily aware of that. But as a Vauclusian, it was rather Jean Alesi’s exploits in Phoenix and Monaco in 1990, and his arrival at Ferrari the following year, that led me to become interested in Formula 1, whereas before I was more passionate about classic cars.

I suppose you must be a fan of Ayrton Senna?

I don’t really like the term “fan”. I have never idolized anyone. What I love is F1 as a whole, the emotions it brings me. Of course, I have always had the utmost respect for Ayrton Senna’s career. And it must be acknowledged that he was an extraordinary personality. A true character from a novel. If I go back a few decades, I must even admit that the teenager I was leaned more towards Alain Prost’s side (chauvinism obliges!). With hindsight and complete objectivity, their rivalry is and will remain one of the most beautiful in the sport, and I am thrilled to be old enough to have witnessed a part of it.

What do you appreciate about him?

His determination and desire to win everything. All champions are made of this wood, but he had set the bar very high in this field.

Do you have any other drivers for whom you have affection?

Yes, there are plenty of them. Jean Alesi, of course, as I mentioned earlier. A fiery temperament and a unique style that wasn’t always recognized. I also really liked the class of Jenson Button. I think Damon Hill isn’t given the recognition he deserves. I even wrote an article to rehabilitate him. I can also mention Gerhard Berger, Fernando Alonso, or Kimi Räikkönen. These are just names that come to mind, but I’m obviously forgetting others. Anyway, I would have a hard time speaking ill of a driver, knowing the sacrifices and commitment it takes to reach and maintain such a level.

Are you nostalgic for the ’80s/’90s?

Necessarily a little since it’s my younger years and the time when I discovered Formula 1. But I continue to appreciate this sport, especially when there is suspense. The Schumacher years between 2000 and 2004 were the least interesting in my opinion because there were no duels (except in 2003). It is obviously not Schumi’s fault, but at that time there was a real lack of opponents.

And in the current generation, which driver are you watching closely?

Having experienced the dark years of French motor racing, I can only rejoice today to see Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon at the highest level with a victory each. Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are in a league of their own, even though Charles Leclerc is not far behind. I am also following the progress of Lando Norris, and the downfall of McLaren at the start of this season saddens me a little.

Why?

What has changed a lot in recent years is the precocity with which these young drivers are entering Formula 1. However, despite their lack of maturity, I find them to be more professional in certain aspects than previous generations. Undoubtedly, this comes at the cost of even more intensive preparation.

What do you think of this new regulation in Formula 1?

The first races of the season have shown that the cards have been reshuffled. In this sense, it’s actually a good thing because there is nothing worse than a long-lasting hegemony. And Mercedes’ domination has been the longest in history. Now, I dream of a three-team duel for the title, so the Silver Arrows need to quickly get back in the game.

How do you see the 2022 season?

I think we haven’t seen the end of our surprises and that the hierarchy will continue to evolve throughout the season. The cars still have a lot of room for improvement.

What are your plans for the future? Do you have a new novel in preparation?

Writing a novel requires a significant commitment, I know it firsthand. For now, I don’t have anything in the works. However, I haven’t given up on publishing something else in the future. I enjoy the variety of projects, and right now I am in the process of creating a brand of accessories and clothing inspired by motor racing called « Unsafe Release ». It demands time and I prefer to focus on it at the moment.

Thank you to Ilario for taking the time to meet with us and we wish him success in his future projects.