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The Mechanic's Tale

Life in the Pit-Lanes of Formula One

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The Mechanic's Tale

By: Steve Matchett
Narrated by: Steve Matchett
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Summary

Formula One Grand Prix mechanic Steve Matchett takes the listener on a compelling journey through his life in the pit-lane, from his beginnings as a young apprentice through his time at Ferrari and BMW to his later success with Benetton.

He gives eye-witness views of the great drivers, including Michael Schumacher, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, and Ayrton Senna. He also talks of key Benetton personalities and explains how the team was transformed into a strong, competitive organization, winning three World Championships.

©1999 Steve Matchett (P)2018 Tantor Sports
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Much better F1 books out there. it's an interesting insight into the story behind the racing, but it's a bit limited in scope. I never felt I got the bigger picture of why things happened.

Interesting if you're a fan

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Enjoyed listening to this book by the author, some interesting inside stories etc. I feel there's more there than he told: He mentions Benetton were questioned re their engine mapping software (remember every other team suspected of them using anti-wheel spin launch mapping on their cars), but skims the surface of that topic, and also 1-2 others which the team was embroiled in. Every other driver/team bio I've read strongly points the fingers at Benetton for deliberately infringing during those years, but Matchett doesn't delve deeper than to mention the fines. Still, the book is enjoyable and a worthwhile addition to a motor racing fan's library of knowledge.

Interesting and fascinating. But missing bits...

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