Argentinian Formula One driver who won 12 Grands Prix and later became a politician, serving as Governor of Santa Fe Province. He's known for his successful racing career and transition to politics.
Carlos Alberto Reutemann, affectionately known as "Lole," was a force to be reckoned with on the Formula One racing circuit, amassing 12 Grand Prix wins and six pole positions between 1972 and 1982. After hanging up his racing gloves, Reutemann shifted gears to become a politician in his native Argentina, serving as governor of Santa Fe and later as a senator.
Reutemann's Formula One career was characterized by a remarkable consistency, earning him a spot among the sport's leading protagonists of the 1970s and 1980s. He finished third in the World Drivers' Championship three times, driving for Brabham, Ferrari, and Williams. The most notable of these was his 1981 season, where he narrowly missed the championship title by a single point to Nelson Piquet.
However, Reutemann's most successful season in terms of race wins was 1978, when he claimed four victories while driving for Ferrari. Despite this, he fell short of the championship title, finishing third behind Mario Andretti and Ronnie Peterson.
Reutemann made history by becoming the second Formula One driver to score points in the World Rally Championship (WRC), following Leo Kinnunen. He achieved this feat in the 1980 and 1985 editions of Rally Argentina, where he finished third on both occasions. For three decades, he held the distinction of being the only F1 driver to score points in both F1 and WRC, until Kimi Räikkönen replicated this feat in 2010.
Reutemann's entry into politics began in the 1990s, when he became a member of the Justicialist Party. He served as governor of Santa Fe from 2003 to 2007 and later as a senator from 2007 to 2011. During his political career, Reutemann was considered a potential presidential candidate, although he ultimately declined to run in the 2011 Argentine general election.
Carlos Reutemann's dual careers in racing and politics have left an indelible mark on both arenas. As a racing driver, he was a beloved figure, known for his humble and unassuming nature. In politics, he was respected for his commitment to public service and his ability to connect with the people of Argentina.
Today, Reutemann remains the last Argentine driver to have won a Grand Prix, and his contributions to the sport continue to inspire new generations of racing drivers and enthusiasts alike. His remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and a passion for life.
Carlos Reutemann's remarkable life and achievements serve as a reminder that, with hard work, determination, and a passion for life, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness in multiple fields.
Carlos Reutemann passed away on July 7, 2021, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and motivate people around the world. His remarkable story serves as a testament to the human spirit, demonstrating that, with dedication and perseverance, we can overcome any challenge and achieve greatness in multiple fields.
Born in 1911
A five-time Formula One World Champion, known for his dominance and innovative driving style in the 1950s.
Born in 1922
Argentinian racing driver who won the 1951 British Grand Prix, becoming the first non-British driver to do so, and is considered one of the pioneers of Argentine motorsport.
90 Years Old
Italian racing driver who competed in Formula One, winning the 1964 Austrian Grand Prix and finishing second in the 1966 Monaco Grand Prix. He's also known for his tragic death during the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix.
84 Years Old
A Formula One World Champion who tragically died in a racing accident, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest drivers in F1 history.
Born in 1926
Australian Formula One driver who won three World Drivers' Championships and founded the Brabham racing team. He's credited with being the first driver to win a championship in a car of his own construction.
89 Years Old
A Formula One World Champion and Indy 500 winner, known for his versatile driving skills and humble personality.
97 Years Old
A two-time Formula One World Champion and Indianapolis 500 winner, known for his charismatic personality and versatility in various racing disciplines.
90 Years Old
A two-time Formula One World Champion, known for his dominant racing skills and tragic death at a young age.
