RISE OF THE ROOKIE: How Jacques Villeneuve stepped out of his father's shadow to become a champion
Jacques Villeneuve faced tragedy when his legendary father died in an accident in 1982. A daredevil and karting ace, Villeneuve would go on to carve his own path through motorsport – here's how.
Born in Quebec, Villeneuve grew up in Monaco and found his feet in grassroots motorsports, making waves in Japan before the United States came calling.
RISE OF THE ROOKIE: How the GP2 title and Super Formula success paved the way to F1 for Pierre Gasly
In 1995, Villeneuve won the CART title with a stunning Indy 500 victory to boot, and Williams were soon eyeing him as their next star. Sir Frank Williams signed Jacques up, leading to a stunning 1996 debut season and a World Championship-winning 1997 campaign.
Watch how Jacques continued his father Gilles' legacy and became Canada's first – and so far, only – Formula 1 champion.
Next Up
Related Articles
Piastri not expecting Norris’ title to change dynamics
End Of Year Reports 2025Red Bull’s best and worst moments from 2025
End Of Year Reports 2025Racing Bulls’ best and worst moments from 2025
QuizTHE BIG QUIZ OF 2025: 20 questions on the 2025 Formula 1 season
Best radio and more – F1's 2025 alternative awards
Hinchcliffe'History shows Piastri will be even better in 2026'