Danica Patrick: The Queen Across the Water

Just as the moon controls ocean tides from a distance, Danica Patrick is able to bend minds from far, far away.

Normal, sane motor racing writers know perfectly well that Patrick does not really have the credentials to interest an F1 team. But any rumour or suggestion that she might possibly be under consideration for an F1 drive sets pulses racing.

With the announcement of the USF1 team, it was inevitable that the world's favourite fast female would be linked to it in the media.

One of USF1's founders has been quoted in the media as saying that he would like the team to have an All-American driver lineup, and that he wants Patrick to wear a

set of their fireproofs. I have no idea if he really said those things, but if he did the reasons are obvious:

• She is an attractive young woman.
• She has won an IRL race.
• She poses for raunchy photos.
  

That unique combination of qualities has made her the undisputed queen of open-wheel racing and a hot media story.

If the lady does cross the Atlantic as an F1 driver, she will undoubtedly be a sensation. Instead of being a back-marker team ignored by everyone, USF1 could be the centre of attention, and that would make a crucial difference to their prospects.

The mainstream media would cover F1 as never before, and TV audiences would be boosted. With F1, as a whole, struggling to find sponsorship, Patrick would be a major asset. Just think of all the global brands targeted almost solely at women? A car with the Max Factor logo on its rear wing? Could be.

In their early days, assuming that they actually make it to the grid, USF1 would not be expected to compete for podium positions. So even if—as I suspect—Patrick the driver is not quite up to the level of Massa/Raikkonen/Alonso etc., she would probably not be disgraced.

You know, I am warming to the idea. I really am.

Welcome back to Europe, Your Majesty.