This has made things difficult on the funding front and at Snetterton everyone started to get a bit frustrated. We had problems in qualifying, including two punctures, and ended up well back on the grid. It certainly has not been through lack of trying from either the team or myself.
We had no choice but to pull out after
Snetterton, as we simply ran out of funds with no obvious explanation for our lack of pace. In my second year in British F3 I am one of the most experienced drivers in the field and with the cost of competing at this level, there is no point in going further into debt just making up the numbers.
Following Snetterton, the team went to Pembrey in Wales for three days testing with Fairuz, which I am told went very well. But as I'm standing here at Castle Combe watching qualifying from the sidelines, Fairuz is eighth and 14th on the grid for the two rounds this weekend.
Q:
So what's the plan for now?
WD:
For the moment we have decided to sit tight for a week or two and not make any knee-jerk decisions. I've just got to keep my chin up, stay really positive, concentrate on my training and see what evolves.
I have been really encouraged by the support I have received from many of the teams and fellow competitors. Naturally there are a few knockers, but when you look behind it they usually have ulterior motives and something to gain from my current position.
There is a lot of politics over here and even fellow countrymen don't mind stabbing you in the back if they feel it can improve their own position. It's disappointing, but that's the way it is and it only makes me stronger and more determined.
Q:
The Minardi
F1 test offered by Paul Stoddart at the start of the year must be a great carrot to keep dangling in front of you to keep you motivated.
WD:
Motor racing is my life and every time I get into a car I am motivated to do the absolute best job I possibly can for both the team and myself. But the offer to test the Minardi F1 car is a once in a lifetime opportunity and one that very few drivers ever get the chance to do without a bucket full of money.
