Former Formula One driver Wilson Fittipaldi Jr., older brother of Brazil’s double world champion Emerson, passed away at the age of 80 after choking on a piece of meat and suffering a cardiac arrest on Christmas Day. The Brazilian Automobile Confederation (CBA) announced his death, stating that Fittipaldi Jr. “passed away peacefully and surrounded by love”.
Fittipaldi Jr. competed in 38 Formula One Grands Prix in the 1970s, driving for Brabham and later for Fittipaldi-Copersucar, the first Brazilian Formula One team established by him and his brother. CBA head Giovanni Guerra praised Fittipaldi Jr., highlighting how he elevated Brazil’s reputation in the sport with his talent, forward-thinking, and daring approach.
While Emerson Fittipaldi secured world championship titles in 1972 and 1974 with Lotus and McLaren, respectively, he joined Fittipaldi-Copersucar in 1976. Despite the team achieving three podium finishes in 103 starts, they did not claim a victory. Fittipaldi Jr.’s contribution to the team’s establishment and development was significant.
Fittipaldi Jr. is survived by his son Christian, who also pursued a career in Formula One during the early 1990s. The Fittipaldi family has left a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport, with both Wilson and Emerson making their mark on the sport.
Wilson Fittipaldi Jr.’s passing is a loss felt by the racing community and fans worldwide. His impact on Formula One and the Brazilian representation in the sport will always be remembered. Despite the challenges faced by Fittipaldi-Copersucar, the team’s existence was a testament to Fittipaldi Jr.’s dedication and passion for racing.
May Wilson Fittipaldi Jr. rest in peace, knowing that his contribution to Formula One and the Brazilian motorsport scene will always be cherished. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his remarkable career in racing.
(Reporting by Gabriel Araujo and Eduardo Simoes; Editing by Christian Radnedge)
