GILLES VILLENEUVE GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN
Sunday marks 40 years since one of the most spectacular and charismatic drivers in the history of Formula 1 lost his life in qualifying at Zolder
AUTO ACTION looks back on one of the flamboyant racer’s short but successful career and explains why he is regarded as one of the all-time greats.
Villeneuve only won six grand prix races, with just two pole positions, but is a legend among Ferrari fans.
His all-in commitment, flat-out bravery and incredible car control means his spirit lives on – even for fans who never saw him race.
“I think Gilles was the perfect racing driver,” said Niki Lauda, the triple champion who raced against Villeneuve and also starred at Ferrari.
“He had the best talent of all of us and, whatever car you put him in, he would have been quick.”
“As a driver, he was the best, no question. The best and fastest in the world. I liked Gilles very much.”
But when he stepped over the edge during qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix at the miserable Zolder circuit, still raging after being robbed of victory at Imola by his team-mate Didier Pironi, time was up for Villeneuve.
In the months following Villeneuve’s death, Scheckter spoke incredibly fondly about his former teammate.
“Gilles was always wanting to prove [himself], always wanting to be the fastest. He would never say ‘I’ll go slowly this lap in practice’, it was always the maximum,” Scheckter said.
“If Gilles was to come back and relive his life, I think he would do exactly the same.
“He was the fastest driver in the history of motor racing but, more importantly for me, is that he was the most genuine person I have ever known.”
In the latest edition of AUTO ACTION we delve into what made Villeneuve the most popular driver of the late 70s and early 80s and why there is no one on the grid like him today.
Gilles Villeneuve was one of a kind, with some iconic moments, driving back on two wheels at Zandvoort to the wheel banging battle with Rene Arnoux at Dijon.
For all this and much more purchase the latest edition of AUTO ACTION on sale digitally here or at your local newsagent.
