What happened on this day, June 24 in Formula 1 history? Find out interesting facts and stories about Formula 1 on this day.
1911
Formula One’s first five-time world champion, Juan Manuel Fangio, was born on this day, 24 June 1911, in Balcarce, Argentina.
Known affectionately by nicknames such as “El Chueco” (the bowlegged one) and “El Maestro” (The Master or The Teacher), Fangio was a titan of Formula 1, defining the sport’s earliest seasons.
Fangio clinched the World Drivers’ Championship five times during his F1 career, an achievement that remained unbeaten for nearly five decades and at a time when the sport was at its most dangerous.
1984
Nelson Piquet took the win at the 1984 US Grand Prix held in Detroit, leading the race from start to finish. Piquet narrowly maintained his lead against Martin Brundle, in his rookie year, driving the normally aspirated Tyrrell, winning by less than a second. However, post-race disputes led to Brundle’s disqualification due to illegal ballast found in his car’s water system.
1990
During the 1990 Mexican Grand Prix, Nigel Mansell demonstrated a daring move that earned him the nickname ‘Il Leone’ (The Lion) from Ferrari‘s ardent fans, the Tifosi. In a gripping showdown, while Alain Prost led in his Ferrari, Mansell, trailing just behind Gerhard Berger in the McLaren, executed a memorable pass on the final lap, overtaking Berger on the outside at the Peraltada corner, and securing his legendary status. This race also commemorated Ayrton Senna’s 100th Formula 1 start.
2003
Juan Pablo Montoya faced a driving ban on French roads for four months after being caught speeding at 126 mph in his BMW. The ban, however, alongside a $1,200 fine, did not prevent him from continuing his Formula 1 races in the country.
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