There was a lot of action during the Formula 1 Spanish Grand prix but one little boy at the Catalunya circuit won the hearts of everybody – teams and audience alike. 6-year-old Thomas Danel was shown sobbing uncontrollably after Kimi Raikkonen’s early exit from the race. An hour later cameras found him in the Ferrari hospitality next to the 2007 F1 World Champion!
The French kid from Amiens toured the paddock afterwards and even joined the Ferrari mechanics to attend the podium ceremony. His photos were universally liked in social networks, while FOM (Formula One Management) and Ferrari were praised for their joint effort to find Thomas and arrange his meeting with Kimi.
Thomas Danel had the time of his life at the Spanish Grand prix
“This has been the most fantastic day for us,” said Thomas’ mother Coralie Danel. “We could not believe it when they came to get us and took us to Ferrari. This is great for fans like us, it really makes F1 and all of its people come alive. Brilliant!”
Formula 1’s new owners Liberty Media made improving the fan experience a priority as they seek to boost crowds and drive revenues.
One *very* emotional day for young @ScuderiaFerrari fan Thomas Danel…#F1 pic.twitter.com/J2ZRj6l1kY
— Formula 1 (@F1) 15 May 2017
Meet Thomas from France! The world’s biggest fan of #Kimi7, whose day just got a lot, lot better. Great to welcome him to our hospitality! pic.twitter.com/FkCSDdZPYG
— Pirelli Motorsport (@pirellisport) 14 May 2017
