Sunshine & Handclaps

‘I have to be as close to perfection as possible because Alain is always like that, too — close to perfection. I have to be exact in setting the car up, exact in every decision I make. We are in the same factory team. If I want to compete with him I have to give the same as he does. For me it is important to have a competitive car like I have now. It is the first time in my career I have been in such a situation and I feel quite happy. With Alain, I expected it to be as it has turned out and I can’t see any reason why it should change. In other words, harmony not friction.’

‘So Senna says he has to be perfect because of me? I’m facing the same situation. I have to be perfect because of him. A big difference is that for the first time Ayrton has the car to become World Champion and his motivation is high. He wants the Championship and he wants to beat me — but in a sporting way and that’s good. No problem between him and me, none at all. He is quicker and I have no excuses but honestly I don’t think he is that much quicker. He is pushing hard all the time.’