What happened on this day, December 8 in Formula 1 history? Find out interesting facts and stories about Formula 1 on this day.
1983
Swiss driver Neel Jani was born in Rorschach, Switzerland. He served as the third driver for Toro Rosso in 2006, participating in Friday practice sessions. Later, he competed for Team Switzerland in the A1GP, contributing to their 2007-08 championship win. With an Indian father, Jani’s cultural ties extended to Force India, where he was also linked.
1999
Known for stirring things up on the track, Ireland’s Eddie Irvine found a fresh audience to entertain (or offend) when he was invited to judge the Miss World competition. Miss Ireland, Emir Holohan-Doyle, claimed Irvine had commented, “apparently you’ve got a nice arse,” though his spokesperson clarified he was “just joking.” Holohan-Doyle added, “Eddie was meant to interview me but instead talked about his wild night and how hungover he was. Before I knew it, my three minutes were up. As I walked to the next judge, he shouted, ‘This is Emir, she’s a Paddy!’”
2002
After being pulled over for driving 80mph in a 50mph zone near Kitzbühel, Austria, Ralf Schumacher was met with disbelief from the traffic officer who quipped, “If you’re Ralf Schumacher, I’m Arnold Schwarzenegger.” Schumacher had to call his wife to confirm his identity at the station. It was his second driving ban; he had lost his license in April 2001 for reaching 100mph in a 60mph zone. His wife Cora’s take? “Ralf causes accidents you’d expect from women.”
2004
Ferrari icon from the 1970s, Carlos Reutemann, took a step back in time when he tested a modern Ferrari, the F2004, at the Fiorano test track. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “It was unforgettable. The power from the engine is astounding; it’s a completely different beast compared to what I drove in my day. Watching Formula One on television today might make it look easy, but after trying it myself, I can assure you it’s anything but.”
2024
The 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (officially the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024) will be the twenty-fourth race of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship, held at Yas Marina Circuit on the weekend of December 6 to December 8, 2024.
F1 Driver Birthdays 8 December
| Birthday | F1 Driver |
|---|---|
| 8 December 1983 | Neel Jani |
F1 Driver Deaths 8 December
| Death | F1 Driver |
|---|---|
| 8 December 2008 | Xavier Perrot |
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