Piquet; his expectations, his feelings, his convictions

While he was presented today to the Brazilian President in Brasilia, Nelson Piquet Jr reflects on his appointment for 2008 with the ING Renault F1 Team.

Nelsinho, what was your feeling when the ING Renault F1 Team announced that you would be one of its two drivers for 2008?

« It’s difficult to put this feeling into words, to be very honest. People don’t always realize that for every young driver, there are years of work and effort to reach Formula 1. I’ve dreamed of racing in Formula 1 since I was very young, and I’ve finally made it! It’s the start of a new chapter, and I can’t wait for the season to begin. »

To what extent did your father help you secure this seat?

« It would be unfair to all the people who have helped me throughout my career to say that my success is due to just one person. My father has been and will always be an exceptional point of reference for me, and his support was crucial at the beginning of my career, up until GP2. But to reach Formula 1, you need more than just a name. Renault offered me the opportunity to race under their colors because they saw in me the necessary talent and potential. The team saw how we worked during testing, what the car setup was like, and our character. That’s what matters in Formula 1. »

Your father won three world championships. How will you handle these inevitable comparisons?

Since the beginning, I have always had to manage being the son of Nelson Piquet. My father is a legend in the discipline, and I am proud of that, just as he has many supporters around the world. If I am here today, it is because I have worked hard and proven that I have the talent necessary to become a Formula 1 driver. I now hope to give people many reasons to be proud of me!

Is it a good thing for you to start in Formula 1 with the ING Renault F1 Team?

« After starting in this team as a test driver, becoming a full-time driver within the same team is undoubtedly the best thing that could happen to me! I already know all the team members, their way of working and approaching Grand Prix weekends, and I know that Renault is a leading team and that we will be able to return to the top level this season, so it’s ideal for me to start in Formula 1. »

What can you expect from your first season in Formula 1?

Throughout my career, I have always sought to achieve the best results and that’s what I intend to do in Formula 1 as well. I am convinced that I will be able to fulfill the expectations Renault has placed in me by working hard and believing in the potential of the car in each race. I will strive at every event to secure the best possible result, but I intend to keep my feet on the ground!

According to ING Renault F1 Team