Juan Manuel Fangio, the legendary Argentine racing driver, passed away on July 17, 1995, in Buenos Aires at the age of 84.
Fangio once famously said, ‘The smell of burning rubber and the sound of roaring engines is the orchestra of a racer’s soul.’
Fangio was born on June 24 1911 in Balcarce, Argentina.
He started racing in Argentina, competing in long-distance races.
Fangio began his career driving modified American cars, including Chevrolets, in the tough long-distance races across South America.
In 1937, Chevrolet built the Fangio Coupe, named after the great man.
He began his F1 career at 37, considered old for a beginner. His racing statistics warrant a tome of their own.
His nickname was ‘El Chueco’ (The Bowlegged) due to his skill in bending his left leg around the ball when playing football as a boy.
His driving skills are legendary. He would study tracks by riding bicycles and motorcycles around them to strategize for race day.
In 1958, he was kidnapped by Cuban rebels and released unharmed.
He inspired the building of the Museo Juan Manuel Fangio in Balcarce, Argentina, where he is celebrated as a national hero.
He served as a global ambassador for motorsport and Mercedes-Benz.
There are six statues at various race venues around the world.
Juan Manuel Fangio’s career and contributions to motorsport have left an indelible mark, solidifying his status as a true icon in the racing world.
Despite his global fame, Fangio remained humble and deeply respected by peers and fans.
He said, ‘Driving fast on the track does not scare me. What scares me is when I drive on the highway, I get passed by some idiot who thinks he is Fangio’
