THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT [A.L]

LETTER 38

Louise Bianchi : some pure raw talent

After years of not racing, Louise Bianchi had the opportunity to drive her late brother - Jules Bianchi - 2014 Marussia around Suzuka where he passed away after a tragic accident.

Not only was this Louise first time in an F1 car but it was also her first time driving around this track.

And boy oh boy did she impress us all. Her trajectories were perfect, her turns clean and she definitely had the speed.

Toto Wolff who was next to me while she drove around the track told me « it's impressive to see how fast she understands how the car works. We all remember how hard to drive the Marussia was yet it seems easy when she drives it »

While Marussia's former team boss, John Booth said « people were confused when we announced she would be driving this car. But I remember that her brother kept on telling me about her talent and easiness to drive. He always said it was natural for her to drive, like walking or talking. I was certain she'd do amazing ».

Charles Leclerc was much more reserved « I just hope she doesn't crash it » while Daniel Ricciardo was pretty enthusiastic « I guess that's a Bianchi thing to be an amazing driver ».

Lately, rumours have been spreading saying that Bianchi would join the F3 championship next season with Prema after her successful test stepping in for Jak Crawford in the Dutch Grand Prix. That weekend she scored points on both races and a podium in the featured race the Sunday, all that while it was her very first F3 weekend.

Louise proved once again how much of an amazing driver she is and reminded us that we should keep an eye on her in the future.

Martin Brundle