Said to host the most technologically advanced cars in racing, the Formula One, also known as F1, events are often considered to be the most glamorous auto races in the world. It takes more than an automobile, however, to make an event stand out above the rest. In fact, many fans will agree that the man behind the machine is just as important as the machine itself.
Of the many teams in Formula One racing, some remain among the most popular in the sport. Every F1 fan knows the Andretti name and what it stands for, but few may realize just how popular this family truly is. Mario Andretti, now retired from Formula One racing, is often called the greatest race car driver of all time. Frequent wins kept Andretti in the news during his days on the track, but now it’s his continued involvement and knowledge of the sport that keeps him on top in terms of popularity. The next generation of Andretti’s are already carrying on the family name and, with the help of Mario, it’s sure to earn them a driver’s seat in fan popularity for years to come.
Through the years, many popular names have found their way onto the track. Among them, Michael Schumacher of Germany, who is a very well known and accomplished F1 driver. Others making the list of Formula One World Champions include Mika Hakkinen of Finland, who was victorious in both 1998 and 1999, Ayrton Senna of Brazil, who was named a champion in 1988, 1990 and 1991, and Alain Prost of France, who walked away with victories in 1985, 1986, 1989 and 1993.
Through the years, the cars of F1 racing have undergone a number of changes to improve their overall design and safety. Constructed as a single-seat car, a Formula One automobile can quickly accelerate and/or brake, which is an extremely important attribute in cars that can reach speeds in excess of 200 mph. With automobiles this fast, it’s no surprise that Formula One racing isn’t slowing down in terms of popularity.
