Finnish rally driver and politician who won the World Rally Championship in 1981 and later served as a Member of the European Parliament. Known for his fearless driving style and charismatic personality.
Ari Vatanen is a Finnish rally driver turned politician, best known for winning the World Rally Championship drivers' title in 1981 and the Paris Dakar Rally four times. He is a highly acclaimed racing driver who has made a significant impact in the world of motorsports.
Vatanen's debut year in rallying was 1970, and he debuted in the World Rally Championship at the 1974 1000 Lakes Rally. His impressive performance in the Nortti Rally in an Opel Ascona, where he beat Hannu Mikkola, brought him to wider attention.
In 1975, Vatanen participated in his first international rally, the Rothmans 747 Rally in Jamaica, driving a Datsun 120Y. He placed 12th with codriver Gerry Phillips. At the end of that season, he was offered his first professional drive in a Ford Escort RS1800, on the RAC Rally.
In the 1976 Scottish Rally, part of the British Rally Championship, the Ford works team replaced a broken differential in Vatanen's Mk2 Escort RS 1800 with one they removed from a spectator's Ford Capri. Although he didn't finish the Scottish Rally, he won the championship, a feat he repeated in 1980, codriven by David Richards, who later became chairman of Prodrive.
Between 1977 and 1980, Vatanen competed in selected World Championship events, initially for the official Ford team and then, after its withdrawal from the sport at the end of 1979, for the semiprivate Rothmans Rally Team. He took his debut win at the 1980 Acropolis Rally and became the World Rally Champion in 1981.
Vatanen's success in the Paris Dakar Rally, with four wins, cemented his status as a rally driving legend. His impressive career in motorsports earned him a place in the FIA Hall of Fame in 2020.
In 1999, Vatanen turned to politics, becoming a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) until 2009. During his time in politics, he focused on issues related to transportation, energy, and the environment.
Ari Vatanen's remarkable career in motorsports and politics has left a lasting impact on the world of racing and politics. His determination, skill, and passion have inspired countless individuals, making him a true legend in his field.
As Vatanen once said, "Rallying is not just about driving fast, it's about being in harmony with the car, the road, and the environment." His philosophy not only reflects his approach to racing but also his commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
69 Years Old
A Finnish rally driver who won numerous championships, including the 1986 World Rally Championship, and is remembered for his exceptional driving skills and tragic death at a young age.
79 Years Old
A two-time World Rally Championship winner, known for his exceptional driving skills and ability to push cars to their limits.
79 Years Old
A Swedish rally driver who won the World Rally Championship in 1984 and is known for his skills in navigating treacherous roads at high speeds.
74 Years Old
A Finnish rally driver who won the 1985 World Rally Championship and was known for his exceptional speed and aggressive driving style.
67 Years Old
A Finnish rally driver who won 23 World Rally Championship events and four drivers' titles, earning him the nickname "The Flying Finn".
75 Years Old
A Finnish rally driver who won 19 World Rally Championship events and finished runner-up in the drivers' championship three times. He's known for his skills on the road and his iconic blue and white Ford Escort.
