What Happened On This Day January 30 In F1 History?

What happened on this day, January 30 in Formula 1 history? Find out interesting facts and stories about Formula 1 on this day.

1901

Rudolf Caracciola, born in Remagen, Germany, emerged as a prominent figure in motor racing, particularly as a key member of the Mercedes team during the 1930s. He clinched the European championship—predecessor to the FIA World Championship—in 1935, 1937, and 1938. His notable achievements began with a victory at the 1926 German Grand Prix driving a Mercedes. Caracciola also excelled in hill-climb races and the Mille Miglia, which he won in 1931, becoming the first non-Italian victor. In 1932, he joined Alfa Romeo, achieving multiple race wins and podium finishes. After establishing Scuderia CC in 1933, a severe accident at the Monaco Grand Prix practice halted his racing for a year. Despite lifelong pain and a shortened leg, he led the Mercedes team, funded by the Nazi party, to numerous victories from 1934 to 1939. Post-World War II, he continued racing until a severe crash in 1952 ended his career. Caracciola passed away in 1959 due to liver failure.

1917

Paul Frere, born in Le Havre, France, was renowned both as a journalist known for his insightful road tests and as a racer. He competed in 11 Grands Prix from 1952 to 1956, finishing second in his final race in Belgium and winning Le Mans in 1960. Outside of motorsports, Frere was a champion rower, securing the Belgian championships in 1946 and 1947.

2009

Teddy Mayer, who helped establish Bruce McLaren Motorsport in 1963 alongside Bruce McLaren, passed away at 73. Ron Dennis, his successor, honoured him, highlighting Mayer’s pivotal role in building upon the team’s foundation after McLaren’s untimely death in 1970. Dennis praised Mayer as one of the great figures in motor racing history.

F1 Driver Birthdays 30 January

F1 Driver Deaths 30 January