Planet-F1

Patrese sad to lose record

Wednesday 7th May 2008

Riccardo Patrese says it will be a bittersweet moment when Rubens Barrichello overtakes his long-standing record of 256 Formula One races.

Barrichello, who made his debut way back in 1993, will become F1's most experienced driver when he makes his 257th GP start in Turkey over the weekend.

The Italian, who retired in the same season Barrichello made his debut, admits he is "sad" to lose the record.

"I will feel some sadness, of course," Patrese told Autosport.

"I was pleased to keep the record, but records are there to be beaten - and the only thing I can say is that I congratulate Rubens for doing it.

"He has had a long career and this record means that if you can survive in Formula One for so many years, then it means you did well - and everything you did was appreciated by the people who worked with you."

Barrichello says it will be a proud moment when he finally achieves the milestone in Istanbul.

"Becoming the most experienced Formula One driver ever means a great deal to me," he said.

"I've had a long career in Formula One and I have so many wonderful memories, but I don't feel any different today to the day when I started out on this journey in 1993.

"My first race, at Kyalami (in South Africa), seems like yesterday. I must thank my family and friends for their unwavering support through the years. I was lucky enough to start my career in F1 at a young age and I love racing as much as ever and, importantly, I still love Formula One.

"While people will look back at my 16-year career in Turkey, I'm still looking forward and the next race is the one that matters the most."