VANGUARD
Wilson Fittipaldi, the renowned Brazilian Formula 1 driver and team owner, has died at the age of 80 in Sao Paulo, as confirmed by the Brazilian Automobile Confederation (CBA).
The CBA announced the news on Friday, stating that Fittipaldi passed away surrounded by love after struggling with poor health since being hospitalized after choking on meat during Christmas dinner.
Fittipaldi, fondly known as “Wilsinho,” was praised by the CBA for his talent, futuristic vision, and daring spirit in elevating Brazilian motorsport to unprecedented heights.
In his Formula One career during the 1970s, Fittipaldi earned three championship points in 38 races, with his debut race being the non-championship 1972 Brazilian Grand Prix, where he secured third place.
Despite initial success, Fittipaldi’s Formula 1 journey saw him fade, with his younger brother Emerson Fittipaldi ultimately achieving greater accolades, including becoming the youngest world champion at the time.
Notably, Wilson and Emerson Fittipaldi made history as the first brothers to score points in the same race on two occasions.
Wilson transitioned from driving to team management, co-creating the Brazilian team Copersucar-Fittipaldi. Despite their efforts, the team failed to meet expectations and disbanded in the early 1980s.
