Rob Wilson might not be a world-renowned racing driver, but he is certainly someone that most Formula 1 drivers are acquainted with when it comes to their careers. This is because Rob Wilson is the man who coaches most of the Formula 1 drivers. More than half the grid at the moment, at one time or another, have received lessons from Rob Wilson. He is regarded as the unsung hero within the motor racing world of F1.
What’s truly impressive about Rob Wilson is that he uses a Vauxhall Astra to make Formula 1 drivers go faster. To find out more, we made our way to the Leicestershire airfield to see how he can improve someone’s driving in just a day. However, we were not going to get behind the wheel of a sports car. Like everyone else, we had to drive a Vauxhall Astra. This is because the training was more focused around accuracy, style, and technique as opposed to ultimate lap times. Formula 1 drivers know how to drive fast. Therefore, they visit Rob Wilson to drive better, and a Vauxhall Astra is perfect for just that.
Rob Wilson feels that training to become a better driver needs to be done in a secure and safe car and should be comfortable enough to spend an entire day in. It should also have enough space for race engineers and manager that often join in by sitting in the back.
The Art of Driving
Once we got acquainted with Rob, who arrived in Britain during the 1970s and went on the compete in racing in Le Mans and America, we discussed technique. The masterclass offered by Rob Wilson places a focus on car control along with details that will help you transform from a good driver into a brilliant one. The slightest tweak of your steering wheel at 120mph can transfer more than half a ton of load from one tyre to the wrong one. The scientific and subtle style from Rob Wilson is purely focused on making you aware of this fact and assisting you in getting it right.
This is scientific and high-level stuff. A couple of years ago, Rob managed to coach Kimi Raikkonen, spending a total of 5 days on the same corner, repeatedly. Much like the swing of Andy Murray or the kicking ability of Johnny Wilkinson, Rob Wilson believes that practice does indeed give perfect results. Speed will unfortunately only get you so far. However, Rob will help you unlock the winning edge.
On the Racetrack with a Formula 1 Coach
Rob gives everyone a 1.4 turbo petrol Vauxhall Astra model to improve their driving. Rob takes the car around the track first, setting a lap time for you to match. His finesse, car control, and speed are phenomenal. We were initially 5 seconds slower than him, but he then goes to work. We immediately understood why everyone goes to Rob to improve their driving skills.