Patrick Simon has been an expert and commentator in the ADAC GT Masters for more than ten years, during which time he has also presented the programme PS on Air – the Ravenol ADAC GT Masters Talk, which celebrated its 50th episode at the Nürburgring. Since the start of this season, the former racing driver has also held the role of circuit announcer for the German GT Championship. In an interview, he reveals how he prepares and what he gets up to at the racetrack.
As circuit announcer, how do you prepare for a race?
I am no Top Trumps presenter, who tells people how many horsepower a car has, how old the driver is and where he lives. I want to give them an insight into how I am feeling and my emotional state. When a driver takes a tight turn at 180 km/h, skids a bit, saves the slide brilliantly and goes on to set the fastest time – I want to convey that emotionally.
Do the crowds differ at different racetracks?
It is hard to say from the commentator cabin. However, I have been commentating from the Mannesmann garage since the middle of the season, and it is great to see how people react. They sit in two accurately reproduced pit walls, don their Mickey Mouse ears and listen to the person commentating. To be able to experience their passion and joy is unique. That goes for all the circuits, whether it be the Nürburgring or the Lausitzring.
Have you had a special experience, one that you will never forget, as circuit announcer?
As I also commentate on the NLS and 24-hour races, I have experienced a lot. An endurance race can sometimes be suspended for a few hours, due to a crash or adverse weather. You cannot fill that time as a Top Trumps commentator. Unfortunately, I have also had to commentate on fatal crashes. You never want to experience those moments, but they are outweighed by far by the positives.
Do you get any feedback from spectators or drivers after a race?
People are quick to criticise. Giving praise comes harder to many. You get criticism from drivers – when you mispronounce their name, for example. But that is fair enough. Sometimes mistakes creep in, and if nobody corrects them, then you make them all the time. I am always pleased to receive constructive criticism.
What kind of relationship do you have with the drivers?
They are afraid of me – after all, I did make it onto the podium on my guest start in ADAC TCR Germany. Seriously though, we work well together. I sometimes receive inside information from the drivers, which is not intended for the public. That shows that we have a trusting relationship.
How would you assess the season so far?
Somehow, everyone seems to be scared of winning, scoring points and winning the title. It is a very intensive and exciting season. One thing is certain: the ADAC GT Masters is a very strong and evenly-matched series. Personally, I feel very happy and can do what I like with great passion. There are no constraints from the ADAC. They give me all the freedom I need. I am really enjoying this trust.
How do you see the future of motorsport?
It is important to be a technological pioneer, as well as providing entertainment. Everyone involved must pool their energies and work together. There is no other way. The fans at the racetrack are right behind us. You can see that from the fact that we have set one crowd record after another this season.
Who will win the 2022 German GT Championship?
There are a few contenders. Personally, I wouldn’t find it such a bad thing if somebody completely unexpected came through to take the title. That would mean that we would witness another four crazy races, and you could not wish for better entertainment.
