Bab 26: Chapter 26: Touring The Future
Henry Calder sat at the edge of his bed, staring at the contracts spread out across the small hotel desk. The weight of the decision pressed down on him like the last lap of a grueling race. His dad's words echoed in his mind: "Prema is where the stars go, but ART will help you shine."
The logical part of him leaned toward Prema Racing; they were undeniably the top-tier team in F2. However, the practical side of him couldn't shake the appeal of ART Grand Prix's focus on driver development. The lingering indecision gnawed at him until he had an idea.
"System, are we allowed to tour the facilities of these teams before making a decision?"
The familiar voice chimed in with a sharp, professional tone. "It is common practice for drivers to visit facilities before signing contracts. I recommend scheduling visits to both Prema Racing and ART Grand Prix to better assess their resources and environment. This will allow you to make a more informed decision."
After breakfast, Henry explained his plan to his dad. Luke nodded in approval.
"That's smart. Seeing the teams up close will give you a feel for who you'll be working with," Luke said, picking up his phone. "Let me make a few calls. I'll get in touch with both teams and arrange something."
A few hours later, the tours were set. Prema Racing had invited Henry to visit their headquarters in Grisignano di Zocco, a sleek, modern facility that was the heartbeat of their success. Meanwhile, ART Grand Prix's headquarters in Villeneuve-la-Guyard, France, promised a more intimate and methodical approach.
The next morning, Henry and his dad drove up to Prema Racing's stunning facility. The building's exterior shimmered with glass panels, and the large "PREMA" logo gleamed in the sunlight. A team representative named Matteo, dressed in a crisp suit with Prema's signature red-and-white branding, greeted them at the entrance.
"Henry Calder, welcome to Prema Racing," Matteo said with a firm handshake. "We're thrilled to have you here."
As Matteo guided them through the facility, it was clear why Prema Racing was considered the pinnacle of F2. State-of-the-art simulators lined one room, their screens displaying hyper-detailed virtual tracks. The engineering bays were bustling with precision-focused technicians working on sleek F2 cars.
Henry's eyes widened as he noticed a display wall featuring photos of Prema alumni. Charles Leclerc, Mick Schumacher, Oscar Piastri F1 stars who had once walked these very halls.
"This is where champions are made," Matteo said, catching Henry's gaze. "You've proven you can win under pressure. Prema is where drivers like you take the next step."
In a private meeting room, Henry sat across from the team principal, who outlined their expectations.
"At Prema, we push our drivers to their limits. You'll be expected to compete for the championship from day one. The resources and talent are here; the question is whether you can handle the pressure."
Henry nodded, feeling the weight of the statement. He could sense the high stakes, but he couldn't ignore the allure of working with a team so synonymous with success.
The following day, Henry and his dad arrived in Villeneuve-la-Guyard. ART Grand Prix's headquarters lacked the glitz of Prema's, but there was a charm to its modest, functional design. A friendly team representative named Camille greeted them warmly.
"Bonjour, Henry! Welcome to ART Grand Prix," she said with a smile. "We're excited to show you how we work."
The tour began in their simulator room, which, while smaller than Prema's, boasted cutting-edge technology.
"We focus on personalized development," Camille explained. "Our goal isn't just to make you a champion it's to ensure you stay one."
In the engineering bays, Henry noticed the meticulous attention to detail. The technicians worked methodically, discussing each component with a level of care that impressed him.
The team principal joined them for a meeting, exuding a calm and reassuring demeanor.
"Henry, ART is about patience and precision. We may not have Prema's flash, but we build drivers who can adapt to any situation. Our focus is on nurturing your long-term career."
Henry appreciated the measured tone. It was clear that ART valued growth over immediate success.
Back at the hotel that evening, Henry sat with his dad, replaying the tours in his mind.
"So?" Luke asked. "What's your gut telling you?"
Henry rubbed his temples. "Prema is… intense. They've got everything I'd need to win right now. But ART feels like a place where I could really grow, you know?"
Luke nodded. "You're not wrong. Prema is a fast track to success, but it's a lot of pressure. ART might take more time, but they'd focus on you as a person and a driver."
Henry sighed. "Why can't it be an easy decision?"
Later that night, as Henry lay in bed staring at the ceiling, the system spoke up.
"Henry, both options have merit. However, your choice should align with your goals. Do you seek immediate results, or do you value long-term development?"
Henry thought for a moment. "What do you think I should do?"
The system paused before replying. "This is your decision, Henry. But remember: success in motorsport is not just about speed it's about endurance, adaptability, and resilience. Choose the path that prepares you for the challenges ahead."
Henry smiled faintly. "Thanks, System. You're starting to sound like my dad."
"That is statistically unlikely," the system quipped, earning a chuckle from Henry.
With the decision still weighing on him, Henry drifted off to sleep, knowing that whichever path he chose, it would define the next chapter of his journey. Tomorrow, he would decide and take his first step toward the next level of motorsport.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone