The Quiet Storm

by Richard Townsend

FOREWORD

Hello, reader.

I felt the need to explain that a project like this requires sacrifices. I gave up an enormous amount of my privacy, and I asked those around me to consider doing the same. Not merely for my sake, but for what my name represents now. A name on a trophy signifying unyielding commitment, passion, and speed. The legacy of Formula One World Champion. When remembered, I hope it will be as someone who faithfully carried the legacy to the best of my ability, for generations of racing fans and tifosi who came before me and will surely come after.

Richard has become a comfortable friend over the 18 months or so he lived in my shadow. He’s seen the inside of my hotel rooms, been with me during victories and setbacks. In the long technical meetings before, and the parties afterwards he swore to me would not make it into the book. We have shared a meal at 3AM in Singapore. We have shared an airport terminal at 3AM (that still wasn’t my fault!). I’ve pestered him endlessly about his encyclopaedic knowledge of racing history, and he has questioned me just as thoroughly about my approach to racing, and occasionally, about my approach to being me.

Being open with a new friend about things I rarely discuss, even with myself, was challenging. I learned a lot through this process and am grateful for that. Richard was incredibly patient and insightful. I joke that he probably could have written this book in a weekend if I’d just been able to give him coherent answers the first time. But my glibness risks obscuring the fact that this project took the time it took because he wanted to do it right. He believed, astutely, that the story behind the headlines, behind the successes, behind the driver, was worth telling.

To all who spent time with Richard in the making of this book, I thank you. Your rich stories are what make this book what it is. Because just like in real life, my story is nothing without you.

- Alex