Patrese gets behind the wheel of his Brabham BT52B after 40 years

Tomorrow, April 17, Ricardo Patrese turns 68 and a great birthday present for him was the opportunity to once again get behind the wheel of the historic Brabham BT52B, taking the second of his six Formula 1 victories.

It was almost four decades ago, in October 1983, when Bernie Ecclestone still owned the Brabham team. But this weekend, Patrese will be driving the BT52B at Goodwood, where the traditional members’ meeting takes place. In the famous Festival of Speed ​​u200bu200bthe Italian racer has repeatedly participated as a guest, but this is his first experience of performing on the track in Goodwood.

There is another event that is unique in its own way: for the first time in almost 40 years, two Brabham BT52В cars with powerful BMW M12/13 L4 t 1.5 turbo engines took to the track, and the second is driven by David Brabham , the youngest son of Sir Jack Brabham.

The demonstration performances in which he and Patrese take part mark the 75th anniversary of the first motor racing competition at Goodwood.

“It turned out that this is indeed the same chassis that won the South African Grand Prix in 1983 – it’s just incredible! – noted the Italian, who was once the first to overcome the milestone of 200 races in Formula 1. – I jumped into the cockpit and immediately felt that I was comfortable behind the wheel – this is my landing, which surprised me, because so many years have passed!

But this is my first time in Goodwood, so I had to study the configuration first. Most importantly, I couldn’t even hold back the tears, because in my time behind the wheel of this car I’ve achieved great success and it’s always been a pleasure for me to drive it.

It’s not so important how fast I drove now, it’s important that I can drive this car again on this beautiful circuit in front of the grandstands full of fans! ..”