Bernie Ecclestone can be in for a grilling if he ever went spherical to Damon Hill’s for dinner – on the desk, that’s, not within the kitchen.
The 1996 World Champion was requested throughout the newest version of the F1 Nation podcast to call his three good dinner company from Formulation 1 historical past and, after all, his causes for selecting them.
There was a distinctly historic really feel to Hill’s choice and whilst you get the impression it might not be a celebration that went on lengthy into the evening, he will surely be attempting to extract some riveting tales.
“After all, there have been some wonderful characters,” stated the 61-year-old former Williams, Arrows and Jordan driver. “I imply, simply gorgeous. The checklist could be very lengthy so it’s a tricky one to decide on.
“I believe I’d be nervous about inviting them as a result of they’re fairly intimidating characters, however they’re so fascinating you’d have to ask them.
“So primary would most likely be Enzo Ferrari. Are you able to think about having Enzo Ferrari at your dinner desk? And you then’ve acquired to suppose what concerning the different company? How’s that gonna work?
“The explanation I’d ask for Enzo is as a result of he’s only a legend, a sort of legendary character in our sport, and likewise in Italy, around the globe.
“Simply attempting to get some concept about what that have can be like, sitting at a desk with Enzo Ferrari in his darkish glasses. He most likely wouldn’t say a lot however his presence can be felt.
“My dad can be good to have again however I kind of have had some expertise with my dad. So what about [Juan Manuel] Fangio subsequent?
“Why am I asking for these folks from the deep previous of our sport? I believe it’s most likely as a result of I’ve had an opportunity to fulfill a number of the extra modern folks. The individuals who have formed our sport appear extra fascinating to me than essentially the drivers. So the folks like Bernie Ecclestone.”
After all, Ecclestone is the one remaining residing particular person amongst Hill’s fantasy trio of company – and he would certainly direct a lot of the dialog in the direction of the 91-year-old former F1 supremo, with a lot of inquiries to ask him.
“If we had Bernie Ecclestone, Enzo Ferrari and Fangio that might be an fascinating combine,” stated Hill.
“I’d wish to put lots of inquiries to Bernie Ecclestone. I’m undecided he’d reply them. However that might be a unstable combination of individuals, and doubtless a cocktail party that would go badly improper, however it might nonetheless be value having a go.”
Put by host Tom Clarkson to Hill that he thought he knew Ecclestone sufficient, he replied: “I don’t, and that’s the purpose.
“He’s extremely controversial, clearly. However he had such an affect on our sport and he would know a lot of what went on in our sport and be capable of clarify the historical past and the tales behind the occasions that went on.
“So I don’t know if that solutions it satisfactorily, however off the highest of my head I’m eager to know what goes on.
“How does all of it go? How does it work? Put collectively, what’s the reality about him?”