Roads of Redemption | F1 | Toto Wolff

01 | My joy.

The sun was rising over Zaragoza, spreading a warm, golden light over the tranquil neighborhood. Tree-lined streets whispered with the gentle rustle of leaves in the morning breeze. Valentina and Alejandro's house, a modest two-story home with a red-tiled roof and white walls, stood at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. A small garden in front, filled with blooming flowers, added vibrant splashes of color to the serene scene.

Yet for Valentina, nothing compared to her childhood memories in Uruguay, before her parents moved to Spain. She recalled the times her mother took her to Colonia del Sacramento, where they would climb the lighthouse together. Ascending the many steps was a small adventure, but reaching the top made them feel like they were on top of the world.

At least, that was what she thought. When her younger brother was born, what many parents expect to be the beginning of a tumultuous relationship due to sibling jealousy, for her, it was the discovery of belonging, and unconditional loyalty and love.

"Ready, set, go!" Valentina shouted; her voice filled with enthusiasm. The toy cars zoomed across the floor, guided by the skillful hands of the siblings. Alejandro, his brow furrowed in concentration, tried to outmaneuver Valentina, his competitive spirit on full display.

"I'm going to be the fastest driver in the world one day!" Alejandro declared, his eyes sparkling with determination.

"¡Vamos, Nano! You can't catch me!" Valentina's voice rang out, filled with playful challenge.

Alejandro, or Nano as his sister affectionately called him, was chasing her around the room, their toy cars clutched tightly in their hands. He was a few years younger than Valentina, his dark hair falling into his eyes as he laughed.

"Te voy a ganar, Vale!" he shouted back, determination in his voice. He loved it when his sister called him "Nano," a nickname that made him feel special and loved.

Valentina zigzagged around the furniture, her long hair flying behind her as she expertly maneuvered her toy car. She glanced back at her brother, his face lit up with joy and competitive spirit. It warmed her heart to see him so happy.

After a few more laps around the living room, they collapsed onto the sofa, breathless and giggling. Valentina looked at Alejandro, his cheeks flushed with excitement, and felt a surge of affection.

"Do you think we'll ever be like them, Vale?" Alejandro asked, his eyes wide with wonder as he pointed to a poster of an F1 car on the wall. "Racing in real cars?"

Valentina ruffled his hair, smiling warmly. "Of course, Nano. One day, we'll be right there on the track. You'll be driving, and I'll be cheering you on."

Their mother's voice called from the kitchen, reminding them that breakfast was almost ready. The aroma of homemade empanadas filled the air, a comforting reminder of their roots.

"Come on, Nano, let's wash up," Valentina said, pulling Alejandro to his feet. They walked hand in hand to the bathroom, their bond unbreakable.

Sunday mornings had taken on a special meaning with the company of her baby brother. Valentina knew that these would be memories that would stay with her forever. They sat close together, their eyes glued to the screen as soon as they heard the sound of the call before the race. The commentators' remarks, which were often—and for her, still are—disconnected from what was happening, the speed, the precision—it was mesmerizing. All of these elements were part of that cherished memory.

"Someday, that will be you, Nano," Valentina whispered, her voice filled with conviction. "And I'll be right there with you."

Alejandro looked up at her, his eyes shining with admiration and hope. "Promise, Vale?"