Adrian Newey Revealed as the Mastermind Behind Vettel's Iconic 'Top Gear' Impression
Former Top Gear producer Andy Wilman revealed that Adrian Newey taught Sebastian Vettel his legendary Nigel Mansell impression, a 'spellbinding' moment from the 2011 show that surprised everyone with its accuracy.
A classic piece of Formula 1 folklore has been confirmed: legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey was the mastermind behind Sebastian Vettel's iconic Nigel Mansell impression on Top Gear. Former executive producer Andy Wilman recently recounted how the four-time champion's 'spellbinding' performance, which left the studio in hysterics, was actually coached by his then-Red Bull colleague, Newey himself.
Why it matters:
In a sport often defined by intense competition and technical data, this story offers a rare and humorous glimpse into the personal relationships and camaraderie within an F1 team. It humanizes legends like Newey and Vettel, reminding fans that behind the helmets and design papers are individuals with a shared history and a sense of humor, creating a memorable moment that transcends the track.
The details:
- The Producer's Take: Andy Wilman admitted on the Midweek F1 podcast that he was initially skeptical, thinking, 'Oh, he’s German. This is going to be a bit sh*t.' However, he was stunned, calling the impression 'pitch perfect' and 'spellbinding.'
- Vettel's Explanation: During his 2011 appearance, Vettel credited Newey, sharing that the designer would tell stories about Mansell. One anecdote involved Mansell being significantly faster than Nelson Piquet at a Monza chicane, leaving the Williams team bewildered.
- A Dominant Era: The appearance took place at the height of Red Bull's dominance, with Vettel on his way to his second of four consecutive World Championships in cars designed by Newey.
- Pop Culture Legacy: The segment has since become one of the most memorable moments in Top Gear's history with F1 drivers, cementing Vettel's reputation as a charismatic and engaging personality.
Looking Ahead:
While this is a look back at a cherished memory, the story resurfacing reinforces the unique bond between drivers and their teams. It serves as a fun reminder of the personalities that have shaped the sport and continues to be a favorite anecdote for fans who appreciate the human side of Formula 1.