07/04/2008
NEWS STORY
According to sources, when F1 (TV) coverage returns to the BBC next year, the British broadcaster, keen to start from scratch, will feature an all-new presentation and commentary team, which signals bad news for Martin Brundle's many fans.
A couple of weeks ago we applauded (ITV commentator) Brundle's tongue-in-cheek comment that Felipe Massa's error at Sepang was the result of "ambition getting the better of adhesion", surely a contender for 'quote of the year'.
However, yesterday, in Bahrain, he surpassed himself.
At a time when most F1 people are (publicly) unwilling to refer to the 'Mosley saga' - the Red Bulletin, famed for its whacky, wild and out-there approach to life within Planet Paddock, being the most obvious example - the former GP driver put a smile on the face of the Pitpass crew.
On his customary grid-walk, Brundle spotted guitar legend Eric Clapton (a.k.a. God), one of the few 'celebrities' to turn up on an F1 grid and merit the term 'star' in addition to being a genuine fan.
Brundle let slip the fact that the former Cream and Yardbirds axe-man was to wave the chequered flag at the end of the race, clearly to Clapton's (mild) frustration, 'Slow-hand' admitting that it was meant to be a secret.
"I'm not sure whether to hold it with one or two hands," said Clapton. And before any of us could hit back with an "Ooh-err missus", Brundle responded; "that's very topical at the moment".
Well done that man.
Meanwhile, we hear that all seven members of the West Dickington Caravan and Mobile Home Club are calling on Max Mosley to step down, as is the manager of the Blue Oyster Club in Frimlington.