F1's long time doctor, Sid Watkins, will be remembered with a minute's applause on the grid ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. From 1978 until 2004 Watkins was the official Formula 1 doctor, having been instrumental in improving safety in the sport and saved countless
lives. The Professor passed away on 12 September this year after a brief illness
An official FIA statement reads: "Following the sad news of the death of FIA Institute Honorary President, Professor Sid Watkins, the FIA, FIA Institute and Formula One Management will arrange tributes to his memory at the forthcoming Singapore Grand Prix. On Sunday, before the start of the race, there will be a minute's applause on the grid in his honour. Throughout the weekend, a Book of Remembrance will be available for the F1 community to write their own personal messages of condolence"
"A bronze bust of Professor Watkins, commissioned for him on the occasion of his retirement last year from the FIA Institute Presidency, will be on display beside the Book of Remembrance throughout the race weekend. At a later date, the Book will be presented to the Watkins family on behalf of the FIA, FIA Institute and F1 family.
The FIA has confirmed a more permanent tribute to the long time F1 doctor is also on the cards, stating: "The FIA and the FIA Institute will continue to consider the most appropriate permanent tribute to Professor Watkins, in recognition of his achievements and his unique legacy for motor sport. An announcement on this lasting tribute will be made in due course."
An official FIA statement reads: "Following the sad news of the death of FIA Institute Honorary President, Professor Sid Watkins, the FIA, FIA Institute and Formula One Management will arrange tributes to his memory at the forthcoming Singapore Grand Prix. On Sunday, before the start of the race, there will be a minute's applause on the grid in his honour. Throughout the weekend, a Book of Remembrance will be available for the F1 community to write their own personal messages of condolence"
"A bronze bust of Professor Watkins, commissioned for him on the occasion of his retirement last year from the FIA Institute Presidency, will be on display beside the Book of Remembrance throughout the race weekend. At a later date, the Book will be presented to the Watkins family on behalf of the FIA, FIA Institute and F1 family.
The FIA has confirmed a more permanent tribute to the long time F1 doctor is also on the cards, stating: "The FIA and the FIA Institute will continue to consider the most appropriate permanent tribute to Professor Watkins, in recognition of his achievements and his unique legacy for motor sport. An announcement on this lasting tribute will be made in due course."
