Jean Alesi will become only the fifth driver in history to reach the milestone of 200 Grand Prix when he takes to the grid in his Jordan-Honda at Indianapolis on Sunday. But the terrorist atrocities in the US and the uncertainty as the world awaits an American response - both of which put the penultimate race of the season in serious doubt - will ensure what should have been a glorious celebration will now be a sombre affair in the paddock.

"Indianapolis is a great place to celebrate my 200th grand prix because it's such a fantastic motorsport name steeped in racing history," said Alesi. "It would be my dream to be on the podium there for this race. But with the recent events in the United States a real celebration for my 200th grand prix is relatively unimportant, because nobody feels like celebrating.
"America is keen to welcome Formula One, though, so I am looking forward to Indianapolis where we hope to have a great race and bring enjoyment to our American fans."

It seems fitting Alesi should join the other members of the elite 200 club - Ricardo Patrese (256 races), long-time team-mate Gerhard Berger (210), Andrea de Cesaris (208) and Nelson Piquet (204) - with Eddie Jordan's outfit.

Although he made his debut with Tyrrell in his home grand prix of 1989 at Le Castellet, finishing an excellent fourth, it was Jordan (it would be another two years before he would get into Formula One) who had recommended his F3000 champion of that year to team boss, Ken Tyrrell. Twelve years on Alesi has amassed 32 podium appearances, four fastest laps and two pole positions yet, unbelievably given his talent, just one victory to savour � his win for Ferrari at Canada in 1995.

But Alesi, ultimately, is glad to just have stayed alive. "The last 12 years have gone so quickly, but I feel an incredible sense of achievement to have made it to my 200th grand prix," he added.
"There are so many things that have happened over this time that make it impossible to sum up my Formula One memories in just a few words - a book wouldn't be enough!
"I think about how many times I have lined up on the grid, how many people I have met and the amazing times I have experienced. But mostly I am so thankful that I have remained safe during my career, because I have unfortunately witnessed some very sad accidents on the track. Eddie launched me into Formula One by arranging my drive with Tyrrell in 1989, and since then I have driven for all the teams I wanted to drive for.
"I still have the same passion for Formula One that I had in the beginning and I believe this is one of the reasons I have survived so long in this sport. You have to give 100% - otherwise you may as well give up."