With Father’s day just around the corner we thought we’d take a break from racing and take a look at some of the most famous fathers and sons to have competed in Formula 1 – and if this doesn’t inspire you to take to the track and thrash Dad, nothing will!
Damon & Graham Hill
Throughout the 1960’s and 70’s Graham Hill won it all, including two F1 world championships and the illusive triple crown of the Monaco Grand Prix, the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 hours of Le Mans. Although his son Damon couldn’t quite match that accolade he clearly shared his dad’s skill at the wheel, and in 1996 he too won the world title. In doing so the Hills became the first father and son in F1 history to be crowned world champions.
Jacques & Giles Villeneuve
Most F1 fans will remember former world champion Jacques Villeneuve, but you might not be so familiar with his father Giles. Like his son, Giles was an extremely talented driver and he enjoyed successful stints at both McLaren and Ferrari before his tragic death at the 1982 Belgian Grand Prix. Despite his death Giles’s reputation as a flamboyant racer lived on through his son Jacques, who in 1997 won the world title many believe his father’s talents deserved.
Nico & Keke Rosberg
Nico Rosberg might not have been the most popular driver in F1 history, but you can’t deny his talent and he clearly inherited some of his dad’s racing DNA. The two did have very different driving styles though, and while consistency was key for Nico, Keke was a thoroughbred racer.
As well as being the first father and son duo to win the Monaco Grand Prix, Nico and Keke were only the second father and son in F1 history to win world championships.
Max & Jos Verstappen
Max Verstappen may only be 19-years-old but he’s already being tipped as a future world champion, which is something his father Jos had to live up to too. Like his son Max, Jos had the talent to match any driver, but unfortunately he never really had a car that could compete for the title. He still managed to pick up a couple of podiums though, and he’ll be hoping son Max can follow in his footsteps. Eight podiums and one race win would already suggest he’s well on his way!
Get ready to feel old, here’s a couple to keep an eye out for in the future.
Mick Schumacher (Son of Michael Schumacher)
Seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher is an undisputed F1 legend, and it’s his son Mick who has the unenviable task of following in his footsteps. After progressing through the karting ranks Mick is currently racing in Formula 3, and he’s already showing the same sort of speed and consistency that made his dad the most successful driver in Formula 1 history. His uncle Ralf wasn’t bad in a single seater either!
Pietro Fittipaldi (Grandson of Emerson Fittipaldi)
Like Mick Schumacher, Pietro Fittipaldi comes from a family full of F1 stars, but it’s his grandfather Emerson who is undoubtedly the most successful. With two Formula 1 world titles to his name Grandad Emerson certainly knows what it takes to win titles, and it’s clearly rubbed off on Pietro. Already a Formula Renault winner and a MRF Challenge champion, 20-year-old Pietro looks well on his way to an F1 drive.
Looking for a last minute Father’s Day treat? Karting Nation gift vouchers are guaranteed to go down a storm, and it’ll give you the perfect opportunity to find out who the real racer in your family is!