A veteran of 256 Grand Prix starts and three Le Mans 24 Hours, the likeable italian is now a true racing dad, supporting his son in the early stages of a gt racing career.

Thirty is a turning point in most people's lives, a time to take stock. The day after the French Grand Prix, we met a Patrese quite unlike his public image. He spoke to us kindly and with insight about his career and his hopes, not to mention a certain contract with Ferrari…

Brilliant but brittle, fast but fallible, he is fearless on the track, yet afraid of the unknown off it. He has a tendency towards superstardom matched only by his tendency to attract controversy. Those are the characteristics of the controversial young Italian, Riccardo Patrese.

Now in his 15th season of Formula 1, Riccardo Patrese is driving better than ever and taking the limelight with a seemingly permanent smile on his face. Shaun Campbell tries to find out what lies behind the Williams driver's astonishing form and why he finds life so amusing.