06/08/2026
Sometimes motorsport throws you a lifeline when you least expect it…
After the dreadful experience I suffered with my Benetton at the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb last month, I genuinely thought my Formula 1 outings for the rest of the year were well and truly over.
But sometimes miracles really do happen.
Out of the blue, one of my fellow FORCE F1 drivers, Mark McAllister, very generously called and offered me the use of his stunning ex-Jos Verstappen Simtek Formula 1 car for this weekend.
So, instead of sitting on the sidelines, I’ll now be driving this incredible car for the very first time at two fantastic events.
Saturday – I’ll be taking to the track at Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands, as part of the celebrations marking the 100th Anniversary of Grand Prix racing.
Sunday – I’ll then be driving the car once again at the Brands Hatch Festival Italia, where I’ll also be organising our Historic Formula 1 Demonstration.
To say I’m grateful would be an understatement. Mark’s generosity has genuinely restored my faith in human nature, and I can’t thank him enough for entrusting me with such a special Formula 1 car.
Having never driven this car before, I’ll certainly be approaching the weekend with a great deal of respect. After the dramas with the Benetton, I’ll be taking things steadily—I definitely don’t want any more car problems, especially when I’ve been fortunate enough to be entrusted with somebody else’s treasured Formula 1 machine!
I’m really looking forward to what promises to be a very special weekend, and I hope to see many of you at Brooklands or Brands Hatch.
Wish me luck!
Mark McAllister
