P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Former F1 driver and team owner Wilson Fittipaldi dies aged 80
The older brother of double world champion Emerson and father of F1 and Indycar racer Christian had been ill for some time, being hospitalised since Christmas Day, which was also his birthday, after choking on a piece of meat. His family’s inability to clear his airway led to a cardiac arrest. Born in Sao Paulo, he drove various cars in his youth, encouraged by his father, Wilson Fittipaldi Sr. In 1966, he had a brief stint in Europe in F3 before focusing on F2 and eventually F1.
Wilson Fittipaldi made his F1 debut in 1971 with Team Lotus, alongside his brother Emerson. Moving to Brabham in 1972, he finished in the points a few times, capping his F1 career with a few strong performances. In 1975, he founded his own F1 team, Copersucar, which struggled for competitiveness. Even though the team endured challenges, they managed to recruit top talent like future champion Keke Rosberg and design genius Adrian Newey.
After Emerson’s retirement and the team’s closure, Wilson briefly returned to racing in 1982. He later focused on managing his son Christian’s racing career. Together, they celebrated success by winning the Mil Milhas Brasileiras in 1994. In 2008, Wilson Fittipaldi shared his vast racing experience and legacy with the world.
