Carlos Reutemann achieved the unusual feat of qualifying on pole position for his debut Formula One race at the 1972 Argentine Grand Prix. This milestone marked the beginning of an eleven-season career that established him as the last Argentine driver to win a Grand Prix, eventually securing 12 victories and 45 podium finishes across his tenure in the sport.
Entry into Motorsport
Born in 1942 in Santa Fe, Argentina, Reutemann began his racing journey in 1965 driving a Fiat saloon car. After competing in touring cars and Formula 2, he transitioned to Europe in 1970 to represent the Automobile Club of Argentina Team. His performance in the European Formula 2 series drew significant attention, leading to a professional contract with the Brabham Formula One team under Bernie Ecclestone for the 1972 season.
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Reutemann became a central figure in Formula One between 1972 and 1982. Driving for Brabham, he secured his first three victories in South Africa, Austria, and the United States in 1974. He later joined Ferrari, where his most successful season occurred in 1978 with four race wins. In 1981, racing for Williams, he narrowly lost the World Drivers' Championship title to Nelson Piquet by a single point. Beyond track racing, he also participated in the World Rally Championship, reaching the podium at Rally Argentina in 1980 and 1985.
Political Transition
Following his retirement from professional racing, Reutemann entered public service in Argentina. He served as the Governor of Santa Fe Province across two distinct periods, from 1991 to 1995 and again from 1999 to 2003. His political career continued in the national legislature, where he represented his province as a member of the Argentine Chamber of Senators from 2003 until his death in 2021.
Fast facts
- Born: 1942, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Died: 7 July 2021, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Formula One career: 1972-1982
- Grand Prix wins: 12
- Pole positions: 6
- Highest championship finish: 2nd (1981)
- Governor of Santa Fe: 1991-1995, 1999-2003
- National Senator: 2003-2021
Questions readers ask
How many Formula One races did Carlos Reutemann win?
He won 12 Grand Prix races during his career.
What political offices did Reutemann hold after his racing career?
He served as the Governor of Santa Fe Province and as a member of the Argentine Chamber of Senators.
Achievements
- Competed at 24 Hours of Le Mans and Formula One
- Discipline: auto racing
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