Daniil Kvyat: As a child my idol was Michael Schumacher

This year Daniil Kvyat will spend a season in FIA WEC endurance racing and will compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans marathon with Prema Racing. The Italian team’s press service invited fans to ask questions of the rider and published Daniel’s answers to the most interesting ones.

Question: What is the maximum speed you have ever driven?
Daniel Kvyat: In Formula 1 we usually don’t look at the speedometer, but in Mexico City we usually pay attention because the straight line is very long. Given that the cars generate minimal downforce due to the high altitude, I managed to accelerate to 368 km/h. It’s pretty fast!

Q: What are your goals for the new season?
Daniel Kvyat: The accelerator to the floor! I will try to do my best and win as many races as possible. I don’t think in the races anyone, including rivals, can have different goals.

Question: Besides Formula 1, what is your favorite sport?
Daniel Kvyat: Definitely boxing. I’m even ready to bring it up to the same level as Formula 1. I like watching boxing, boxing myself. I have a lot of respect for this sport.

Question: What are your fondest memories of Formula 1?
Daniel Kvyat: I’ve had a lot of strong races, but I will call my podium in Germany in 2019 special. For Toro Rosso, it was the first podium in 11 years and the second in the team’s history. A special achievement – the whole team was in ecstasy for several hours after the finish.

Q: Are you a good cook?
Daniel Kvyat: I wouldn’t call myself a good cook, but I am a good cook. I can cook basic things – scrambled eggs, chicken rice, pasta. These are simple dishes, but they can effectively satisfy hunger.

Q: Do you like pineapple pizza?
Daniel Kvyat: No. I prefer the classic Italian pizza, which should not contain pineapple.

Q: Are you excited to be part of the Prema team?
Daniel Kvyat: Of course I am very happy, because this is a legendary team. In the junior divisions we only fought each other, but it’s time to join forces and achieve something cool.

Q: Which rider was your idol?
Daniel Kvyat: As a child my idol was Michael Schumacher. He won many races with a Ferrari. I watched the 2006 season, saw his fight with Fernando Alonso. I didn’t have time to compete with Michael, but I have experience fighting Fernando – this is something special.

I used to think of them as celestials, but then I realized that they are the same people as the rest. A very interesting experience. Growing up, Michael was an example of an ideal racer for me.

Q: What kind of music do you usually listen to before the start?
Daniel Kvyat: Usually I listen to something that fits my mood – metal, but not too heavy, rock, indie rock.

Q: What is it like to be a Prema racer?
Daniel KvyatA: Pretty scary so far! (laughs) I already had to sing, cook pasta, and as soon as I signed the contract, I was immediately sent for an interview. I even record videos with songs on TikTok, but it’s great to feel young again!

Question: What is your favorite song?
Daniel Kvyat: Each number has a character and each number can give pleasure at some point. In general I like the classic circuits – Silverstone, Spa, Monza, a very cool circuit in Mugello, Imola. And Monaco is a specific circuit, but also cool.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Daniel Kvyat: Five years is a long time in racing. Hopefully I will enjoy what I am doing and will be very motivated to keep racing.