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Thierry BoutsenBelgian racing driver
Date of Birth: 13.07.1957
Country:  Belgium |
Content:
- Thierry Boutsen: Belgian Racing Legend
- Formula Championships
- Formula 1 Debut
- Williams Success
- Later Career
- Post-Racing Career
Thierry Boutsen: Belgian Racing Legend
Early CareerThierry Boutsen, a renowned Belgian racing driver, began his motorsports journey in 1977 by participating in Formula Ford-1600, where he emerged victorious as the 1978 champion, securing 15 race victories out of 18.
Formula Championships
In 1979, Boutsen transitioned to Formula-3 and claimed three victories in the 1980 season, securing the second-place position behind Michele Alboreto. He moved to Formula-2 in 1981, once again finishing as the runner-up, this time to Geoff Lees.
Formula 1 Debut
1983 marked Boutsen's Formula 1 debut, where he raced for the Arrows team. Despite not achieving significant results in his first four seasons, he eventually moved to the Benetton team in 1987.
Williams Success
In 1989, Boutsen joined Williams and secured a two-year contract. During his first season with the team, he triumphed in two Grands Prix: the rain-soaked Canadian Grand Prix and the Australian Grand Prix. In 1990, he claimed victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, overtaking his close friend Ayrton Senna driving a McLaren-Honda.
Later Career
After leaving Williams in 1991, Boutsen joined Ligier and subsequently Jordan in 1993, replacing Ivan Capelli after his retirement from Formula 1. He also participated in American racing championships and events, notably securing second place in his class at the 1997 24 Hours of Daytona race alongside Bill Adam and Hans Stuck in a Porsche vehicle.
Post-Racing Career
Boutsen retired from motorsports after an accident during the 1999 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Currently, he is the owner of Boutsen Aviation, a company headquartered in Monaco.
