We were racing at circuits where there were no crash barriers in front of the pits, and fuel was lying about in churns in the pit lane. A car could easily crash into the pits at any time. It was ridiculous.
Meaning of the quote
Imagine racing on tracks without any safety barriers to protect the pit areas where the cars stop for fuel and repairs. The fuel itself was just sitting around in open containers, making it really easy for a car to crash right into the pit area at any moment. Jackie Stewart, a Scottish athlete, thought this was completely absurd and dangerous.
About Jackie Stewart
Jackie Stewart, the “Flying Scot”, was a legendary British Formula One racing driver who won three World Drivers’ Championships and was instrumental in improving the safety of motor racing. After retiring from racing, he became a successful television commentator and commercial spokesman.
More quotes from Jackie Stewart
It takes leadership to improve safety. And I started off the movement in my time, but the person who has done more over the past 20 to 30 years and who has led it is Professor Sid Watkins.
Scottish racing driver
I would have been a much more popular Wolrd Champion if I had always said what people wanted to hear. I might have been dead, but definitely more popular.
Scottish racing driver
When there is an accident involving fire, in most cases death is caused by the inhalation of the toxic smoke. What we need is air to go to a driver for 45 seconds. I’m surprised that this is not done, and I would make it compulsory.
Scottish racing driver
From today I am no longer a racing driver. I’m retired and I am very happy.
Scottish racing driver
The years I raced in were fantastic. There was so much change in the cars. We went from treaded tyres to no wings right through to slicks to enormous wings.
Scottish racing driver
There is no doubt that Formula 1 has the best risk management of any sport and any industry in the world.
Scottish racing driver
In one year I travelled 450,000 miles by air.
Scottish racing driver
We were racing at circuits where there were no crash barriers in front of the pits, and fuel was lying about in churns in the pit lane. A car could easily crash into the pits at any time. It was ridiculous.
Scottish racing driver
There has been a huge advance in technology, which has improved the safety of the cars incredibly, but there are still some heavy crash impacts and in certain circumstances there is still the chance of fire today.
Scottish racing driver
I’m not going away. I’ll still be very much involved in the team but not with the same number of hours. I need to move over and allow the people who are really doing the job the space to do so.
Scottish racing driver
We have had more sales for this year’s grand prix than any other, and we have been helped in that by the fact that Jenson had 10 podiums last season and looks like a winner. It is good for British motor racing if he is there and doing well.
Scottish racing driver
Cornering is like bringing a woman to climax.
Scottish racing driver