WTCR – Monteiro: “We have to let time take its course”

>>> Find the entire interview in issue 2157 of AUTOhebdo, available on newsstands and in digital version<<

You got back behind the wheel this month, what is the testing schedule?
In Monza (Italy) at the beginning of March, I did 10 rounds in total with sets of 3-4 rounds. It was very short, just to get back into the rhythm. It had been six months since I had sat in a racing car, I had to see how I was physically, and also how my vision would react to the speed on the circuit. It was very basic overall. We are not yet looking for the performance of the car.
Last week I was able to do a few laps in Zandvoort (Netherlands) to continue my evaluation and see where I am. Over the next few weeks, I will continue my treatment, but we cannot perform miracles and we must be patient. During the week preceding the first round in Marrakech, I hope that the progress will be good and that the FIA ​​doctors will give me the green light to participate in the launch. I also have to feel capable of doing it, because in Monza I felt good but certainly not at a sufficiently competitive level to resume racing, but it is not impossible.

How did your body react?
I was a little cautious with the vibrators at first, but I didn't have any issues with my neck or shoulders. There are still areas that still need improvement, my vision is not optimal.

What's wrong with this one?
The nerves outside the eyes were stretched. Concretely, this caused a pronounced strabismus. Fortunately, the nerves gradually return to their original form. Today, my eyes still have a little slowness in action and coordination. Sometimes I see a bit of a double in the distance, other times I have trouble focusing. That didn't stop me from returning to a normal life. For example, I take the children to school by car without any problem. On the other hand, for competition, it's not yet that.

We feel a serenity in your speech, while you are going through a very uncomfortable situation...
This is clearly very frustrating. On the other hand, this accident allowed me to see things in life philosophically. I know I was very lucky. I could have come out in a wheelchair or outright died. So, to be able to get my physical abilities and my mental fitness back is fantastic. That makes me optimistic for the future. I am aware that we must not rush events. Honda, which renewed my contract this winter, is not putting any pressure on me. They only want me back racing when I'm 100%.

>>> Find the entire interview in n°2157 of AUTOhebdo, available on newsstands and in digital version<<