Alexander (Alex) Fach and Alexander Schwarzer shared the Porsche 911 GT3 R of Fach Auto Tech in the ADAC GT Masters. A good relationship, trust and mutual respect are essential, in order to be able to perform out on the track. But aside from tenths of seconds, tyre pressure and set-up, how well do the two team-mates really know each other? The answer, and a few anecdotes, can be found in this rather different interview.
Which of you would find a hotel?
Alexander Schwarzer: “I think I would book it. I am a bit more demanding. Alex is more relaxed in that regard.” (laughs)
Who has the bigger suitcase?
Alex Fach: “That will be me. However, Alexander always flies to the races, whereas I travel by car, so me is a bit restricted.”
Which of you is most likely to leave something at home?
Alexander Schwarzer: “Alex!”
Alex Fach: “100 percent me! It has happened a few times. On one occasion, I forgot my helmet and only noticed about 45 minutes into my journey. I had to turn the car round and go back. I have also forgotten my gloves, and a few other things.” (laughs)
Alexander Schwarzer: “AirPods, for example.” (laughs)
Alex Fach: “Yes, that’s true. I leave them in the hotel every morning.”
Which of you is more punctual?
Alex Fach: “I am more punctual. I am Swiss and he is Mexican.” (laughs)
Alexander Schwarzer: “Yes! Mexicans always need two minutes more.” (laughs)
Alex Fach: “Generally speaking, however, we are both very punctual people. Plus, there are strict rules within the team. We have to pay € 20 for every minute that we are late.”
Which of you has the better taste when it comes to food?
Alex Fach: “I think we both have very similar tastes, but it is like the hotel room – Alexander is more choosy, especially when it comes to vegetables.” (laughs)
Alexander Schwarzer: “I am not really a fan of greens (laughs). However, we are both a little picky. When it comes to finding a restaurant, then that is definitely my job, without any doubt. I am extremely demanding in that regard.”
Who is the most chaotic of the two of you?
Alex Fach: “That is me. I am also younger, so it is only natural.” (laughs)
Which of you is most likely to have a heated discussion with your engineer or team principal?
Alex Fach: “We have both had our moments…”
Alexander Schwarzer: “I think we are quite similar in that regard. As a rule, I tend to calm down quicker. Alex takes a bit longer than me.”
Which of you is most addicted to using your mobile phone?
Alexander Schwarzer: “Alex, you’ve got me beaten on this one.”
Alex Fach: “Sure, but it is close! And it goes without saying that I am only ever looking at the analyses from the engineers.” (laughs)
Which of you has the most annoying habit, and what is it?
Alex Fach: “Alexander is determined not to walk a single metre. It is unbelievable! When we were at the Salzburgring, the trucks really needed every space available….but Alexander still parked in the middle of the paddock.” (laughs)
Alexander Schwarzer: “Yes, that is true. I love walking, and love running. Just not at the racetrack, where you have scooters and all those things at your disposal! Why on earth would I walk?” (laughs)
Which of your partner’s attributes would you gladly adopt?
Alex Fach: “I think I would like a bit of his Latino mentality. Just to let things flow and be more easy-going.”
Alexander Schwarzer: “He is a very quiet guy, while my Mexican temperament means I can boil over very quickly.”
Alex Fach: “He would like to be a bit calmer, and I would like to be a bit wilder. That is why we work so well as a team. We are simply the perfect combination.” (laughs)