08 Apr 12

Ten
questions
to:
Matthew
Wilson

Ford Fiesta RS WRC driver Matthew Wilson is currently out of action after breaking his ankle in a training accident last month. The Englishman was a frustrated spectator on Vodafone Rally de Portugal recently where he answered WRC.com's questions.

How’s your recovery going? “I’ve had the main cast removed, but the annoying thing is that I probably initially underestimated the amount of damage that I had done. Although according to the consultant surgeon I’m where I need to be and probably a bit ahead of that.”

When are you coming back? “Initially my aim was to be back for Argentina but that might be a bit too soon. I’m sure I could be okay for then, but it’s such a long rally that it might even set me a back a bit. So we’ll play it by ear but definitely Acropolis.”

What have you been doing while your ankle gets better? “It’s been odd and frustrating: there’s been no travelling but at least I’ve managed to do a bit of upper body training and some work on a static bike.”

What’s your favourite film? “That has to be Top Gun. It’s a real boy’s film and what I grew up with!”

Which country would you like to see a rally in that’s not currently on the WRC calendar? “I’d love to go rallying in America. It’s a fascinating country with some great roads that look like a cross between Finland and New Zealand.”

During your racing career, you knew Lewis Hamilton - who’s still a good friend. Do you think he’ll win the Formula One championship this year? “Lewis’s speed has been really impressive. But you’ve got to admire Jenson Button’s consistency too. It looks like it’s going to be between them this year.”

Favourite cartoon character? “The funny thing is that I was never into cartoons or comics as a kid. It was all about rally car books for me!”

Favourite holiday destination? “I’ve had some great holidays in Dubai: that’s probably my favourite.”

If you were ever on death row - and we’re not suggesting you would be - what would you choose as your last meal? “I think a traditional English Sunday roast with all the trimmings, or maybe Christmas dinner.”

What was your first car? “I had my first car when I was seven: it was a brown Ford Escort MkII. I bought it for £25 and sold it for £30, so it’s clear that I inherited the Wilson family genes!”