Patrese’s record changes hands this weekend

Riccardo Patrese admitted that he will feel a tinge of sadness in Turkey this weekend, when Rubens Barrichello will take his record for the most races participated in during a career.

Barrichello will race his 257th F1 race in Istanbul as the Brazilian currently holds a record of 256 race starts.

And although Patrese is happy for Barrichello, he claims to feel a bit unhappy about losing a record he held since the 1993 Australian Grand Prix.

« Of course, I feel sadness, » declared Patrese.

« I was happy to hold this record, but they are there to be broken, and the only thing I can say is congratulations to Rubens for doing it. »

« He had a long career and this record means that you can survive in Formula 1 for a great number of years. »

Barrichello is going to party in Turkey this weekend surrounded by his family and friends.

Regarding this record, the Brazilian admitted that it was an important milestone for him.

« Becoming the most experienced driver Formula 1 has ever known means a lot to me. I have had a long career in Formula 1 and I have so many wonderful memories. I don’t feel any different today than I did the day I started this adventure in 1993, » he commented.

My first race at Kyalami seems like it was just yesterday. I must thank my family and friends for their support over the years. I was fortunate to start my F1 career at a young age and I love racing more than ever.

Barrichello and Patrese raced together in only one season, in 1993, when Barrichello was making his debut with Jordan and Patrese was spending his final year in F1 with Benetton.