Formula 1’s Barrichello to become astronaut
Formula 1 Racing star Rubens Barrichello has $200,000 less in his bank account today. He’s handed over the bounty to Sir Richard Branson, who will respond in kind by launching Barrichello into space.
Barrichello becomes the latest space enthusiast to book a spot on Virgin Galactic. The racing star and about 300 others will officially become astronauts once Branson’s Virgin Galactic is up and running.
“For me it is such a pleasure to be here and involved in Virgin Galactic because since I was a kid, it’s a very, very clear feeling that I have always wanted to go to space,” said Barrichello. “I became a racing driver, which involves getting a fast car, but I want to see up there how fast it goes.”
The Brazilian-born Barrichello currently finds himself in second place in the Formula 1 standings with 19 points, 12 behind leader Jenson Button.