In Paris, five minutes with Paul Hembery
During a visit to Paris for the promotion of the book "Miles and Meals," produced by Pirelli, Paul Hembery, the competition director at the Italian manufacturer, took five minutes with the Motorsinside.com editorial team to talk about Formula 1. History and anecdotes are on the menu.
Originally from Yeovil, England, Paul Hembery is one of the new key figures in Formula 1. Having joined Pirelli in 1992, right after the Italian manufacturer’s last season in the premier category, the Briton has been leading the competition department of the Milan-based company for over 11 years. In this capacity, he played a role in Pirelli’s return to the World Rally Championship tracks in 2008, before succeeding Bridgestone as the sole tire supplier for F1 starting in 2011.
Are you more of a Juan-Manuel Fangio, Jim Clark, Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, or Fernando Alonso fan?
Paul Hembery: « It’s a difficult question. But I think I am more Fangio and Moss. I like their mindset, always in touch with danger. They were very brave or stupid, I don’t know (smile). The 50s, it was the golden age. There was no television, less media coverage. A very good generation of drivers, with Ascari as well. In short, I like the cars they had at the time and the mindset of the drivers. »
What is the most exciting race you have ever seen?
« Still hard to choose (sigh). I would say Monaco 1984 with Ayrton Senna’s comeback. He started from very far back and climbed up to second place in the end. »
Pérez’s race in Malaysia (second, right behind Alonso after starting from ninth place) – was it an echo of the famous 1984 Monaco Grand Prix?
« What is similar is the rain. But in 1984, cars were not as safe as they are today. Their legs were particularly exposed. Senna was very brave to have acted as he did that year. He had to feel and understand the car in its conditions: the tires, the brakes … »
You seem to appreciate old-school Formula 1. Aren’t you disappointed by the direction it has taken today?
Disappointed, no. It’s just that the rules have changed. But when you have races as competitive as today, it’s fantastic!
Who is the friendliest driver? The one you talk to the most?
They are all nice. But I have a special relationship with Jenson Button. We are from the same region. He’s a good friend. And his father, John, is great.
Are you more about spectacle and speed or durability and performance?
« Spectacle. Formula 1 today is both a spectacle and a business. People can watch many sports on television, such as cricket, tennis, or football. Formula 1 faces competition and must make itself attractive. Especially when it ventures into new markets like China or India. »
