Rubens returns to circuit that sparked F1 career

Honda Racing F1 Team driver Rubens Barrichello returns home to Sao Paolo this weekend for the climax of the 2006 season – the Brazilian Grand Prix. “My home race in Brazil is very special to me and always gives me a little bit of extra motivation,” says Rubens.

But Interlagos is more than just his local track; Rubens has a special connection to the circuit as it was where his passion for racing was first ignited. “I was born very close to Interlagos and whenever I dream about racing, it’s always around this track. The first race that I saw there as a spectator was in 1980, when Rene Arnoux beat Elio de Angelis, and I’ve wanted to win it ever since.”

Unfortunately, in his 14 years of F1 competition, Rubens has never stood on the top step in front of his home crowd. “It is frustrating that I’ve never won at home, especially as I should have won in 2003, but there was a problem with the fuel. I had such a robust car that year, yet it decided to let me down in my home race!“

As a local boy, there are many things for Rubens to look forward to this weekend, not just at Interlagos itself. “Away from the track, there are lots of advantages to performing at home,” says Rubinho, as he is affectionately known in Brazil. “I go back to my home every night and sleep in my own bed, I have my kids around me – all of that is a huge plus. The race weekend goes by so fast because I have so much to do, but it’s the most enjoyable weekend as well.”