THE LIFE OF A FORMULA 1 SIM DRIVER

Only the sign outside distinguishes the simulator building from those around it. Upstairs there’s a swathe of grey carpet, grey sofas, and three rows of desks with computer screens and intercoms. These will not all be occupied today; normal simulator procedure only requires three or so personnel. It’s only when the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas are in the sim that this room attracts a full house of trackside engineers and a delegation from the Brixworth engine facility.

Stoffel arrives, bids us good day, then asks if he can briefly be excused for lunch. It’s going to be a long day – but not as long as some, as he explains upon his return.

“This race is pretty good,”