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Elio De AngelisItalian racing driver, Formula 1 pilot
Date of Birth: 26.03.1958
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Elio De Angelis: The Last Gentleman Player
- Success with Lotus
- Move to Brabham
- Tragic Death
- Legacy
- Inspiration for Medical Reforms
- Other Interests
Elio De Angelis: The Last Gentleman Player
Early Life and DebutElio de Angelis was born in Rome, Italy, in 1958. Coming from a family of speedboat suppliers, he inherited a passion for racing. In 1979, he made his Formula One debut with the Shadow team.
Success with Lotus
In 1980, de Angelis joined the Lotus team, where he quickly found success. He claimed his first podium finish at the second Grand Prix he competed in. During his six years with Lotus, he twice stood on the top step of the podium and earned numerous podiums. His clean driving style earned him the nickname "The Last Gentleman Player."
Move to Brabham
After the 1985 season, de Angelis left Lotus when the team's focus shifted towards a young Ayrton Senna. He joined another renowned Formula One team, Brabham, replacing two-time world champion Nelson Piquet.
Tragic Death
During testing at the French Paul Ricard circuit, the rear wing of de Angelis's Brabham BT55 detached at high speed. The car became uncontrollable, flew over the barrier, and burst into flames. While the impact itself did not cause significant injuries, de Angelis was unable to free himself from the cockpit. A lack of marshals and medical assistance on the track delayed his extraction, and he succumbed to smoke inhalation 29 hours later.
Legacy
Safety ImprovementsDe Angelis's death had a profound impact on Formula One's safety regulations. Engine power limitations were imposed, and the Paul Ricard circuit was shortened, removing the high-speed Verrerie corner where the crash occurred. However, the lack of adequate medical and marshalling support was still a critical concern.
Inspiration for Medical Reforms
The near-death experience of Philippe Streiff at the French Grand Prix highlighted the importance of improved medical response times. De Angelis's death ultimately led to significant changes in the provision of medical assistance at races, potentially saving the life of Gerhard Berger in his 1989 crash at Imola.
Other Interests
Beyond racing, de Angelis was an accomplished pianist. He could perform at a concert level and improvise brilliantly. During a 1982 drivers' strike, he entertained fellow drivers with his musical prowess.
