Difference between revisions of "Geoff Donnelly"

Revision as of 17:19, 25 January 2014

Geoff Donnelly, born XX/XX/XXXX in X, X, was a British professional racing driver who competed in Life Grand Prix, Prost Grand Prix, and Formula One. Fondly known as 'The Prince of Pies' due to his love for the savoury pastry and meat dish, Donnelly was known for his numerous visits to food outlets whilst at Grand Prix weekends enjoying his favourite meal. Despite at some points being noticeably thicker than any of the other drivers, Donnelly insisted that his size did not impact his driving abilities.

Early Life and Career

Up to you Salamander

Life Grand Prix Series

Again, your call.

First Formula One Career

To be completed when the canon F1 results have been determined.

2000

Heading into 2000, Donnelly stayed with the Stefan team to partner German Nick Heidfeld, aided by sponsorship from British bakery firm Greggs. Prior to the 2000 Formula One season, the likeable Briton featured in an advertising campaign in the United Kingdom, promoting Gregg's selection of pies. However, his season did not get off to a great start, as whilst riding his scooter to a pie shop before Free Practice 1 at the Australian Grand Prix, Donnelly came off the moped and injured his wrist. Despite claiming that 'he was as fit as he'd ever been', he was forced to sit out the remainder of the weekend on doctr's orders, to be replaced by team test driver Evelyn Gomes.

Things went from bad to worse for Donnelly in Brazil, as it was evident that the Stefan chassis was far from efficient, and the 3 year old Mechachrome engines severely down on power. He failed to qualify for any of the next three races, although Heidfeld managed to drag the Stefan above 107% for the second time at Imola.

Donnelly's season came to a close at the next round in Spain, with the Stefan Grand Prix trucks and equipment being refused entry to the Catalunya circuit. It emerged that Stefan had been excluded from competing in the World Championship after 3 and a quarter seasons of competition. Donnelly was out of a drive once again, and would not enter another Formula One event for another four years.

Prost Grand Prix Series

Second Formula One career

Donnelly would get another chance at Formula One midway through 2004 with the struggling Minardi team. Replacing Nicolas Kiesa, the abolition of the 107% rule meant that for the first time in his Formula One career, he would be guaranteed to make the grid. He scored points on his return with an 8th place at the Canadian Grand Prix, and whilst the next three races did not bolster his tally, Donnelly was closer to team mate Daniel Melrose than Gianmaria Bruni had been earlier in the season. However, an alleged bounced cheque would end Donnelly's season, as Minardi simply did not have the money to keep him on. He was replaced in favour of Hungarian Zsolt Baumgartner, and once again found himself without a seat.

Results