Brazilian · Rio de Janeiro, Brazil · Born 17 August 1952Brazilian Formula 1 driver who won three World Championships (1981, 1983, 1987) and is considered one of the greatest drivers of the 1980s era.
Nelson Piquet was a three-time Formula One World Champion (1981, 1983, 1987) and one of the sport's most polarising figures, combining extraordinary talent with a notoriously provocative personality. His title battles with Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, and Nigel Mansell produced some of F1's most dramatic seasons. Known for his technical intelligence and smooth, efficient driving style, Piquet is one of Brazil's greatest racing drivers.
Three-time Formula 1 World Champion known for his tactical racing approach and fierce rivalry with Nigel Mansell
How They Played
Calculating and tactical driver who maximized car potential through superior racecraft
Lasting Impact
One of Brazil's greatest F1 drivers, pioneering modern race strategy and car setup techniques
Career Honours
- Formula 1 World Drivers' Champion 1981 (Brabham)
- Formula 1 World Drivers' Champion 1983 (Brabham)
- Formula 1 World Drivers' Champion 1987 (Williams)
- Brazilian Formula 3 Champion 1977
- Formula 1 Grand Prix Winner – Argentine Grand Prix 1981
- Formula 1 Grand Prix Winner – San Marino Grand Prix 1980
- Formula 1 Grand Prix Winner – German Grand Prix 1986
- Formula 1 Grand Prix Winner – Hungarian Grand Prix 1986 (first F1 race held in Hungary)
- Formula 1 Grand Prix Winner – Italian Grand Prix 1983
- Formula 1 Grand Prix Winner – Canadian Grand Prix 1982
- Formula 1 Grand Prix Winner – Detroit Grand Prix 1982
- CART Indianapolis 500 Winner 1985 (non-championship achievement)
- Formula 1 All-time Race Wins: 23 Grand Prix victories across career
| Constructor | Season(s) | Races |
|---|---|---|
| Ensign | 1978 | 1 |
| McLaren | 1978 | 3 |
| Brabham | 1978–1985 | 114 |
| Williams | 1986–1987 | 32 |
| Team Lotus | 1988–1989 | 32 |
| Benetton | 1990–1991 | 32 |
| Career Total | — | 214 |
Brazilian Athletes