F1 A.D. Specials: 1993: Interview with Michael Andretti

Michael ANDRETTI - Still flyin'

Q: Last year you was so optimistic about your future debut in F1. Seems that you had seen it just in bright colors. But first two Grand Prix in Kyalami and Interlagos has brought you nothing but pain and disappointment. Do you want to get back to US?

M.A.: Well, accidents is a part of the game. But, of course, I would like to find myself on more comfortable place than in the medical helicopter. There’s not much physical pain – the shock after crash has gone, my back is hurt a little but everything is allright. The greatest pressure for me is my own dissatisfaction with my results.

Q: After your retirement in Kyalami you have said that in Brazil you will work more efficiently…

M.A.: South African Grand Prix was very hard for me. I was just like a boxer after a knockout. Now I’m ready to bite off my own tongue for this words. But, anyway, I’m not going to get back to United States. I’m gonna prove myself that I’m a driver.

Q: Is there a hope for this?

M.A.: Don’t be so cruel! You have to had a piece of compassion for an unlucky!

After a winter tests I still have many questions to the team and to myself. For some of them I already received an answers – first from Ayrton Senna. He’s a great partner – you can believe me.

Q: How the team is treating to your failures?

M.A.: I don’t feel any pressure from the team. Everybody’s understanding the situation. I’ll repeat – the greatest pressure – is my own dissatisfaction. I remember who I was in INDY and I exactly know who I’m now. But I’m not going to stay in the back of the grid for a long time.

Q: Don’t you think that the reason of your failures is in the mechanics – McLaren MP4/8 is still not tested enough?

M.A.: No, I think that it’s only my faults. And what about the new McLaren, soon it will reach the Williams’ level. Ayrton said that!

Q: You and Senna has left Mika Hakkinen without a Grand Prix driving. Do you fell any inconvenience about that?

M.A.: No. The relationships between McLaren drivers and Ron Dennis are completely clear. And Mika has knew that he will stay out of the cockpit if Senna will agree to drive McLaren.

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