Intergrity matters

Sir,

It was interesting to read Nigel Roebuck’s ‘Reflections’ in the November edition relating to the integrity of modern Formula 1 drivers.

It prompted me to recall the same writer’s article about Carlos Reutemann under the title ‘Legends’ in May 1997. This relates the story of Reutemann and Nelson Piquet vying for the 1981 championship, going into the final race at Caesars Palace. Although leading on points before the race, Reutemann didn’t do enough and Piquet became champion.

Afterwards, one cynical young driver said that Reutemann should have put Piquet into the wall. It would have been seen as a racing accident – no one would have known. This was later put to Carlos. He was shocked and said “I would have known”.

For this in particular, Reutemann became one of my heroes, as did Nigel Roebuck for telling me about it.

Mike Chorley, Bath, Somerset