Rinaldo Capello Italian racing driver. Date of Birth: 17.06.1964 Country: Italy

1. Early Career and Formula Racing
2. Endurance Racing Success
3. Le Mans Victories
4. American Le Mans Series and Sebring Triumph
5. Le Mans Crash and Return

Early Career and Formula Racing

Rinaldo Capello began his racing journey in 1976 with karting. He made the transition to single-seater racing in 1983, competing in the Formula Fiat Abarth. In 1990, he secured a significant victory by winning the Italian Supertourismo Championship with Volkswagen Golf. He repeated this triumph in 1996, this time at the helm of an Audi A4.

Endurance Racing Success

Capello's first endurance racing victory came in 1997 at the 6 Hours of Vallelunga, once again behind the wheel of a Volkswagen Golf. His performance caught the attention of Audi Sport Joest, who chose him to drive their Audi R8 in the 2000 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite uncertainties surrounding the car's capabilities, the team achieved a respectable third-place finish.

Le Mans Victories

Capello went on to drive winning cars in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003 and 2004, with Bentley Speed 8 and Audi R8, respectively. He also finished on the podium in three other Le Mans races.

American Le Mans Series and Sebring Triumph

In 2000, Capello placed second in the American Le Mans Series, claiming victory in six races. From 2006 to 2007, he secured back-to-back championships alongside Allan McNish with Audi Sport North America in the R10. Capello also added the 12 Hours of Sebring to his list of wins in 2002.

Le Mans Crash and Return

In the 2007 24 Hours of Le Mans, Capello suffered a crash in the Audi R10 TDI after losing a rear tire. Team Audi's No. 2 car had been leading the race at the time, and the crash resulted in a change of leadership and an eventual victory for a different squad. However, Capello returned in 2008 to claim another Le Mans win.