The 25-year old is currently working on reestablishing his reputation as a driver in the North American Stock Car Racing series, where he has just been confirmed for a full season with Kevin Harvick Inc in the Truck Series.
“I want to be one of the first Brazilians to do a full season and to be the first Brazilian champion,” revealed Piquet in a recent interview with Brazil's Globo Esporte. “It's great to open the door for other Brazilians coming to America. There are already many Brazilians racing in Europe and worldwide.”
Piquet's plan is to move slowly from the Truck Series to the Nationwide Series, and only after into the Sprint Cup. Rushing that transition would be dangerous, as he first needs to learn the basis of stock car racing before battling with the big guys in the pinnacle of NASCAR.
“Our plan is to be in the main category in five to six years. We don't really know how quickly it will evolve, it could be a little more (time) or a little less. But I don't want to get to the main category unprepared to compete for the title.”
As far as his failed experience in F1 is concerned, Piquet has clearly grown out of it, as he admitted to himself that the Great Circus will probably not welcome him with open arms anytime soon. However, saying “I'm sorry” often helps.
“It was an unfortunate episode that is over now. I made a mistake, I was immature, I apologise. It happens to many young people who get to a position in a global sport and they're not prepared. What I can guarantee is that it will never happen again. I am restarting my career, getting a second chance, and I think I deserve it. I've already proved to everyone that I am a winning driver,” he added.
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