Former FIA medical delegate Sid Watkins passes away at the age of 84 – Formula 1 news
Former FIA medical delegate, Professor Sid Watkins who brought remarkable improvements in Formula 1 racing regarding the safety of drivers, has unfortunately passed away at the age of 84.
Bernie Ecclestone, the chief executive officer of F1 brought Watkins in the sport in 1978 when the accidental injuries and even the deaths were very high. Moreover, just after he came in, Ronnie Peterson died in a severe accident at Monza in Italy due to
poor medical service at the circuit.
He has been called as Professor for his relentless efforts which made the game safer for the drivers. He worked diligently to bring in the necessary safety improvements and was strongly supported by Max Mosley who was the head of FIA during that time.
Although, he retired from the position of F1 medical officer in 2004, nevertheless, he kept on providing help and played a key role in the governing body as the institution’s first president.
It will be important to mention that he had a very good relationship with everyone in the sports and he earned a great respect and admiration. Furthermore, he was very close with the legendary driver, Ayrton Senna who died in 1994 San Marino Grand Prix in
a car accident.
He has written in his book, Life at the Limit: Triumph and Tragedy in Formula One, about his last days with the three-time world champion, in which he told that how much the Brazilian driver was upset after the death of Roland Ratzenberger in the qualifying
before the race.
"What else do you need to do?" he told Senna. "You've been world champion three times, you are obviously the quickest driver. Give it up and let's go fishing"
"Sid, there are certain things over which we have no control. I cannot quit, I have to go on," Senna replied.
Additionally, the great neurosurgeon has saved the lives of many drivers which also include Rubens Barrichello who is the most experienced driver in the history of the sport.
"It was Sid that saved my life in Imola 94," Barrichello said. "A great guy to be with, always happy. Thanks for everything you have done for us drivers."
Even though, the safety pioneer has died but his work will remain alive forever.
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