Paul Stoddart: finding faith in Fernando Alonso and Minardis miracle

Published: March 22, 2023, 12:01 a.m.

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Formula 1 loves a feel-good story and the Minardi fairy-tale is no exception. They wrote one of the most heart-warming chapters in the sport\\u2019s history. Mark Webber\\u2019s fifth-place finish on his debut at the Australian Grand Prix in 2002 is one of many fond memories cherished by former team boss Paul Stoddart. A year earlier, Paul wasn\\u2019t even sure they\\u2019d be quick enough to qualify for the first race. But his confidence in a 19 year-old Fernando Alonso was rewarded and the team started life in F1 much better than expected. Paul tells Tom Clarkson the moment he realised Alonso had what it takes to become a World Champion, why the Spaniard still has that burning desire to compete at the very top and how to be his best at Aston Martin. Paul also remembers Michael Schumacher\\u2019s manners and the eye-opening time he lapped Ferrari\\u2019s test track with the seven-time champion. Plus, how Max Verstappen\\u2019s winning mentality was clear to see at a young age, when he raced his father Jos in a simulator.
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