SEPTEMBER 8, 2008

Patrese to test for Honda F1

Riccardo Patrese was for many years the most-experienced Formula 1 driver of all time with 256 race starts. His record was finally broken this year by Honda's Rubens Barrichello, after Michael Schumacher fell short of the record when he quit the sport at the end of 2006 with 251 Grands Prix behind him.

Riccardo Patrese was for many years the most-experienced Formula 1 driver of all time with 256 race starts. His record was finally broken this year by Honda's Rubens Barrichello, after Michael Schumacher fell short of the record when he quit the sport at the end of 2006 with 251 Grands Prix behind him.

Patrese, who is now 54 years old, left F1 in 1993 but will get his chance to try a modern car thanks to his contribution to the celebrations when Barrichello beat the record. While taking part in a celebratory golf tournament, Riccardo mentioned that he would love to try out a Honda F1 car, and the team was delighted to give him this opportunity. The car will be one of last year's RA107s and the test will take place tomorrow at Jerez de la Frontera.

In the course of his long career Patrese only won six races but was on the podium 37 times. He now commentates for Italian broadcaster Sky Sports Italia.