McLaren

Santander and Pedro get behind young drivers


Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Pedro de la Rosa was the lead speaker at the concluding event of Santander's national campaign to help the careers of promising young Spanish racing drivers.

Last Friday, 13 young hopefuls travelled to the Spanish banking corporation's international headquarters in Boadilla del Monte for a series of talks aimed at increasing their knowledge of the industry, developing their skills and giving them a headstart in their racing careers.

They heard presentations from Santander's Formula 1 sponsorship manager, Pablo de Villota, who outlined what sponsors and partners look for in a profitable relationship, and how the drivers could get the most from a relationship with a sponsor. Gonzalo Iglesias, a nutritionist and fitness expert who has trained, among others, the Real Madrid football team and Spain's Davis Cup tennis squad, also gave the drivers invaluable advice.

Pedro told the youngsters about his own career, how he'd fought to emerge as one of Spain's leading talents and how he'd followed his dream across the world to finally achieve his dream of racing in Formula 1. His speech was inspirational, telling the racers to always believe in their dreams and never give up in their pursuit of excellence. It left his young audience open mouthed in awed appreciation.

At the end of the day's proceedings, one lucky finalist was chosen to receive Santander's ultimate honour of a 30,000 Euro motorsport scholarship. The prize went to 16-year-old Antonio Alarcon from Mallorca.

Pedro said: "Santander's support of young Spanish drivers is a fantastic initiative that really supports grassroots motorsport in Spain. I hope that Antonio is able to use his scholarship to benefit his career - that level of support is simply invaluable when you are just starting out in the sport.

"I'm proud to have been able to offer my experience and advice to everyone who attended the Santander event. And I'm sure all these guys will benefit tremendously from the support they were given today."