Top 5 Brazilian Formula 1 Drivers
In Formula 1, Brazil has a remarkable history with legendary drivers who’ve won major titles multiple times. Formula 1 enjoys immense popularity among car enthusiasts worldwide, and Brazil is no exception. While it may cruise slightly off the mainstream radar, the impact that it had worldwide is unmistakable.
The habit of watching Formula 1 races is widespread among its fan base. Despite being broadcasted at really unconventional times, the influence of certain Brazilian icons has drawn a significant domestic audience, encouraging many to give the sport a chance.
Let’s gear up to meet the greatest Brazilian Formula 1 drivers in history.
Brazil’s Top 5 Formula 1 Drivers.
5th Place – Emerson Fittipaldi
Starting off our list is the two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi, who achieved phenomenal success on the racetracks during the 1970s and 1980s. Born in 1946, he began his racing career young, starting with karting.
He debuted in Formula 1 in 1970, and by 1972, he had secured his first World Championship with Lotus. In 1974, he won the title again, this time racing for McLaren. After retiring from Formula 1, he continued his racing career in IndyCar, later returning to Formula 1 but without the same level of success.
4th Place – Nelson Piquet
Nelson Piquet stands as one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers to have ever lived. Born in 1952 in Rio de Janeiro, he began his racing journey by claiming lots of victories in karting. Piquet made his Formula 1 debut in 1978 and went on to win the World Championship three times during his career, all while driving for Brabham in 1981, 1983, and 1987.
Piquet’s reputation was built on his extremely skilled maneuvers and perfect lap execution. His global recognition as one of the best drivers ever was solidified in 2000 when he was introduced into the Hall of Fame.
3rd Place – Rubens Barrichello
A relatively newer figure in Formula 1, Rubens Barrichello, born in 1972, embarked on his journey as a driver similarly to his peers, starting with kart racing. His first Formula 1 appearance was in 1993. While his career might not be marked by numerous significant achievements, he played a pivotal role in elevating Formula 1’s popularity in Brazil.
Barrichello raced for Ferrari, Brawn GP, and Williams. He achieved multiple victories and became renowned for breaking records, like the youngest pole position holder and most Grand Prix starts, highlighting his talent, longevity and consistency in the sport.
2nd Place – Felipe Massa
Born in 1981 in São Paulo, Felipe Massa began his Formula 1 career in 2002. He gained widespread recognition for racing alongside Michael Schumacher at Ferrari. Despite never winning a World Championship title, Massa was renowned for his excellent relationship with marketing teams worldwide. Much of Formula 1’s current popularity in Brazil can be attributed to Massa’s efforts in promoting the sport to a broader audience.
1st Place – Ayrton Senna
The pinnacle of our list should be no other than Ayrton Senna, the unforgettable legend of Formula 1. Born in 1960 in São Paulo, Senna started his journey in motorsports at a very young age with kart racing.
Senna made his Formula 1 debut in 1984, racing for the Toleman team. During his tragically short career, he was renowned for his exceptional mastery of racing in wet track conditions and his precision, securing three World Championships with McLaren in 1988, 1990, and 1991. Sadly, his life ended in a high-speed crash at the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994 while he was immersed in the very act that defined his brilliance, to forever be remembered as a racer who lived on the edge, embracing his passion to the fullest.
