𝐖𝐇𝐈𝐓𝐄 𝐅𝐄𝐑𝐑𝐀𝐑𝐈 | 𝐂𝐋𝟏𝟔

𝐗𝐗𝐕𝐈

·˚ ༘

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April 2nd 2023

ZAHRA NICHOLS

The team booked a private seating area for today's morning briefing in the hotel. I sat in a corner, sipping my coffee, and going over my notes for the day. Anderson stood at the front, detailing the plans and assignments for the race day.

"Remember, today is crucial," Anderson emphasized. "We need detailed reports, interviews, and compelling stories. Capture the excitement, the drama, everything."

After the briefing, Anderson gestured for Keir and me to stay behind. Once the room cleared out, he approached us with a serious expression.

"Alright, you two," Anderson began, glancing between us. "I've got a special assignment. Both of you will write the race recap report, but there's a catch. Whoever writes the better report will get theirs published, meaning one of you will not get your work published."

Keir and I exchanged looks. The competitive spark in his eyes matched mine. We both wanted this.

"Understood," Keir said.

I nodded. "Got it. We won't let you down."

Anderson never smiles, but his expression was the closest thing to a real smile I've ever seen him do. A look of amusement. "Good. I want to see who's the better writer. Impress me. I want to make sure we have fresh new talent on our hands right now."

We left the room, the tension palpable. Keir and I had always worked well together, but this was different. Now, we were rivals, at least in this sense. 

As I walked back to my room to grab my things, my mind was racing. I needed to bring my A-game today. No distractions, just pure focus. I glanced at my phone, seeing a message from Anderson about my assignment for today, aside from the report. It was just a few interviews with some of the drivers, including Charles Leclerc. Anderson told me if they don't have an interview panel open, just to try and push myself towards them, and a camera will always follow.

Perfect. I had to push aside any personal feelings and concentrate on the job. This was my chance to prove myself.

The morning briefing left me buzzing with anticipation. As I made my way to the paddock, I knew today was crucial—not just for the drivers, but for me as well. The Sky Sports team followed me with their camera, ready to broadcast my interviews live. I clutched the microphone, and as the camera started rolling, I was on. 

The camera focused on me, and I took a deep breath, ready to deliver my opening line.

"Good morning, everyone! "This is Zahra Nichols with Sky Sports, reporting live from the Australian Grand Prix. We'll be bringing you insights and updates directly from the drivers and team members as they prepare for today's race. Let's start by speaking with some of the key contenders."

My first stop was Max Verstappen. He was discussing strategy with his engineer, but as soon as he saw me approach with the Sky Sports crew, he broke away, ready for our interview.

"Max, do you have a moment?" I asked, shoving the mic toward him.

"Sure," he replied, no emotion behind that face, as usual. The camera zoomed in, capturing every detail.

"With the track conditions today, do you think it will affect your strategy?" I asked.

Max nodded thoughtfully. "The track is tricky, no doubt. We've had some issues during practice, but our team has made the necessary adjustments. It's all about staying flexible and making the right calls at the right time."