For most racing drivers, the chance to step up to Formula 1 is the opportunity of their careers, but Anthony Davidson says that his first grand prix start is something he still regrets to this day.
Speaking to Chris Medland in the final episode from the current My big break series, WEC champion Davidson talks about the turning points in his career, which included more than a decade in top-level racing.
Along the way, he brings his thoughtful views on why F1's points system should be revamped, the challenges facing female racing drivers, and his current commentary role.
He reveals how an impromptu visit to Brands Hatch was the key to moving out of karting — where he raced alongside the likes of Dan Wheldon and Jenson Button — and into Formula Ford. Within two years, Davidson was a Formula 1 test driver and he eventually got his chance to race with Minardi, driving what he calls a "beast" of a car that he wasn't physically prepared for — and paying £250,000 for the privilege.
But Davidson bided his time and was rewarded with a drive for Super Aguri, where he came agonisingly close to scoring world championship points. With the withdrawal of the team, he turned to sports cars, racing for Aston Martin before joining Peugeot's effort and then moving to Toyota, where he admits he's still "grieving" the 2016 Le Mans win that never was, when his car broke down with a lap remaining.
Frank, funny, and insightful, Davidson takes you through the highs and lows of his eventful career.
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