Before Fittipaldi, Piquet and Senna: The Beginning of Motor Racing in Brazil (1908–1954)

Abstract

Brazilian drivers have dominated the history of Formula One racing and therefore hold a prominent place in the international pantheon of the sport. Brazil is by no means a wealthy country, nor is it as socially advanced as a great deal of others, and therefore such a significant role in international motor sport may at first appear unlikely. This article unpacks the relationship between Brazil and the sport of motor racing, something that is strongly connected to the role played by the automobile since its arrival in Brazil. The main purpose of this article, however, is to discuss the history of Brazilian motor racing from the first structured auto races (São Paulo, 1908, and Rio de Janeiro, 1909) until the dawn of the Rio de Janeiro Grand Prix, staged at the famous Gávea Circuit, which represents the critical point at which Brazilian motor racing entered the highest echelons of world motor sport.