Of Mika's logical solution and Val-coming future champ Bottas.
Flying like the Finn THE nation has every potential of producing F1 champions if more time is spent structuring a proper development programme. Such was the sentiment of former world champion Mika Hakkinen. “Of course you have every opportunity of creating a champion. It’s how good a programme is and how you manage it,” said Hakkinen in an exclusive interview thanks to Compass Communications in Subang yesterday. “Programmes should cater to children from the ages of nine to about 18 or 19 where they will then mature into the various categories of racing before graduating into F1.” The Flying Finn explained such programmes need to emphasis the importance of education, physical training and skills on and off the track. “It’s no science but pure logic. You cannot make a champion within two or three years…maybe seven to 10 years but with the right programme in place, you will be able to get good racing drivers.” When asked if Hakkinen, who won the F1 title back to back ...