Huan-Manuel Fangio Outstanding Argentine racing driver, five-time Formula 1 champion[1]. He was nicknamed Maestro. Date of Birth: 24.06.1911 Country: Argentina

Biography of Juan Manuel Fangio

Juan Manuel Fangio was an exceptional Argentine racing driver, who became a five-time Formula One World Champion. Born on June 24, 1911, in Balcarce, Argentina, Formula One racing did not exist at the time. Fangio grew up in a struggling family, with his Italian immigrant father working as a laborer on a construction site. At the age of ten, Fangio had to start working himself and found a job at a small private garage repairing cars.

In 1929, Fangio suffered a severe case of pneumonia, which nearly took his life. Antibiotics were not available at the time, but he managed to recover. He participated in his first race in 1936, where he modified a production car and competed in South American races. In 1940, he earned his first trophy by winning the famous "Premio del Norte" race, covering a distance of 5,900 miles. This victory brought him his first sponsors, but it was the European Grand Prix races that could bring him fame.

At the age of 37, Fangio made his debut in the European racing series. Most modern-day racers would consider retirement at that age, but Fangio went on to win five of his world titles between the ages of 40 and 47. He believed that while he may not be as physically fit as he was in his twenties, his experience, skills, and racing instincts compensated for it. Fangio was known for sacrificing certain pleasures of life to maintain his focus and discipline.

After World War II, Fangio finally made it to Europe in the summer of 1948, testing a 1.4-liter "Simca - Gordini" in Reims, France. However, it was the "Gran Premio de Sudamérica" race in 1948 that marked a significant moment for Fangio. During the race, he missed a turn and was involved in a fatal accident that took the life of his close friend Daniel Urrutiya. The incident deeply affected Fangio, but he mustered the courage to continue racing. From then on, he always drove alone.

Fangio gained recognition when the Argentine government sponsored him, providing him with a Maserati 4CLT/48. With this car, he won his first race in Mar del Plata, Argentina. He then went on to win races in San Remo, Perpignan, Marseille, Monza, and Albi. In 1950, Fangio joined the famous Alfa Romeo team for the first Formula One season, partnering with Italian driver Giuseppe Farina. Though he won three races, he finished second in the championship.

The following year, Fangio triumphed, winning his first championship title. Before the final race in Pedralbes, Spain, Fangio and Ferrari's Alberto Ascari were the contenders for the championship. Alfa Romeo made significant upgrades to their car for the race, and Fangio's victory, combined with Ascari's pit stops, secured him the championship. Fangio then joined Maserati, and while waiting for the new season, he competed in Formula Two races for Ferrari. He won six races in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina.

In 1954 and 1955, Fangio signed a contract with Mercedes-Benz and achieved further success. He won two races for Maserati before Mercedes-Benz had their cars ready for the season. Fangio won four more races, securing his second championship title. In 1955, tragedy struck at the Le Mans 24-hour race, where numerous spectators were killed. Mercedes-Benz withdrew from racing, canceling four races. Fangio became a beloved figure, known for his respect and sportsmanship.

For the 1956 season, Fangio joined the Lancia Ferrari team, but the team's internal strife did not suit him. After winning his fourth championship title, Fangio returned to Maserati when his teammate Stirling Moss joined Vanwall. In 1957, Fangio won races in Argentina, Monaco, Reims, and the Nürburgring, securing his fifth championship title. After two races in 1958, where he finished fourth, Fangio felt fatigue and lost motivation. He retired from racing, leaving a mark as one of the greatest drivers in history.

After his racing career, Fangio became the head of Mercedes-Benz's representation in Argentina. He actively supported young drivers in finding teams and sponsors and promoted sports in his homeland. He opened a racing car museum in Balcarce, Argentina, which showcased his achievements and featured cars donated by other prominent racers. Fangio's calm demeanor and confidence continued to resonate, even in his old age. He passed away on July 17, 1995, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time.