Nelson Piquet

Nelson Piquet Souto Maior was born on August 17, 1952, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He would go on to become one of the greatest Brazilian Formula One racing drivers, and a significant figure in world motorsports. Piquet is known for his successful career in Formula One, where he became a three-time World Champion, securing his legacy as one of the sport's legends.

On October 17, 1981, Nelson Piquet won his first Formula One World Championship. Driving for the Brabham team, Piquet's victory was secured after a season-long battle, and he became the first Brazilian since Emerson Fittipaldi to win the championship. This marked the start of his dominance in Formula One during the 1980s.

Nelson Piquet claimed his second Formula One World Championship on October 15, 1983. He achieved this milestone by driving a Brabham powered by a BMW turbo engine. Piquet's technical acumen and racecraft were instrumental in securing the championship, marking a significant moment in his racing career and the history of the sport as it highlighted the turbocharged engine era.

On October 18, 1987, Nelson Piquet secured his third Formula One World Championship while racing for the Williams team. His consistent performance throughout the 1987 season, coupled with his strategic racecraft and knowledge of the car dynamics, helped him clinch the title, solidifying his status as a legend in Formula One racing history.

Nelson Piquet retired from Formula One racing on October 14, 1992, after a successful and storied career. Over his 14-year career, he had won 23 grands prix and three world championships, making him one of the most successful drivers of his era. His retirement marked the end of an era for the sport and left a lasting legacy that would inspire future generations of drivers.

On May 23, 1998, Nelson Piquet suffered a major crash during practice for the Indianapolis 500. The crash severely injured his legs, which led to extensive surgery and rehabilitation. This incident highlighted the dangers of motorsport and demonstrated Piquet's resilience and determination as he worked hard to recover. Despite the accident, his prior achievements in motorsport continued to earn him respect and admiration.

On June 7, 2000, Nelson Piquet won the prestigious Mil Milhas Brasileiras endurance race in Brazil. Despite having retired from Formula One, Piquet continued to showcase his prowess in motorsports, demonstrating his versatility and passion for racing. This victory in one of Brazil's most important motorsport events added another accolade to his illustrious career.

Nelson Piquet was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame on November 4, 2006. This prestigious honor recognized his significant contributions to the world of motorsports, particularly his achievements and impact in Formula One. His induction celebrated his enduring legacy in racing, marking him as one of the all-time greats within the motorsport community.

On April 27, 2013, Nelson Piquet Jr., the son of Nelson Piquet, won the inaugural FIA Formula E Championship. Nelson Piquet attended the race and witnessed his son carry on the family legacy in motorsports. This event was significant as it marked the rise of a new form of auto racing focused on electric vehicles, with Piquet Jr. becoming the first champion of the series.

Nelson Piquet faced controversy following comments he made about Lewis Hamilton, which were widely criticized as being racially insensitive. On July 1, 2020, the story gained significant media attention and prompted responses from many in the motorsports community. The incident highlighted ongoing discussions about diversity and inclusion within the sport and led to widespread calls for change and improvement in attitudes.