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Ricardo RodriguezMexican race car driver
Date of Birth: 14.02.1942
Country:  Mexico |
Content:
Biography of Ricardo Rodriguez
Ricardo Rodriguez was a Mexican racing driver and the younger brother of the famous driver Pedro Rodriguez. Born in Mexico, Ricardo showed early talent in cycling and won the youth championship in Mexico for bike racing. However, at the age of 14, he decided to switch to car racing and started learning to drive, with his first car being an Opel sedan. In 1957, at the age of fifteen, Ricardo won the Nassau Tourist Trophy in the Bahamas.
Moving to Europe
In 1960, both Ricardo and Pedro Rodriguez moved to Europe as part of the North American Racing Team. Ricardo teamed up with Belgian veteran Andre Pilette, and together they secured second place in Le Mans driving a Ferrari 250. The brothers also achieved third place in the 12 Hours of Sebring and second place in the 1000 km Nürburgring.
Scuderia Ferrari
In 1961, Scuderia Ferrari invited Ricardo to race in the Italian Grand Prix. Unfortunately, during the race, there was a fatal accident that claimed the life of Wolfgang von Trips. Ricardo Rodriguez had to retire due to a fuel pump defect. However, in 1962, he was given a full season with Scuderia Ferrari. Despite the team not being considered favorites, Ricardo performed exceptionally well as a rookie. He secured second place in the non-championship Mexican Grand Prix and finished 12th in the championship, scoring points in two races.
Targa Florio Victory
Ricardo Rodriguez had relatively less luck in sports car racing, but he achieved a significant victory in the Targa Florio alongside Olivier Gendebien and Willy Mairesse.
Tragic Accident
In the non-championship Mexican Grand Prix held in Mexico City, Scuderia Ferrari decided not to enter their drivers. Ricardo Rodriguez raced for Lotus-Climax instead. Unfortunately, during the qualifying session, Ricardo crashed into a barrier and succumbed to multiple injuries. The Mexico City circuit where the accident occurred was subsequently named in honor of the Rodriguez brothers.
