GREATEST RACES #25: The ‘best race’ of Gilles Villeneuve’s life – 1981 Spanish Grand Prix
Starting today, exactly 75 years on from the very first race of the inaugural championship, David Tremayne looks back at the 1981 Spanish Grand Prix as legendary driver Gilles Villeneuve showcased his undoubted talent.


To mark F1's 75th anniversary celebrations, F1.com is counting down the sport's 25 greatest races with a new feature every week. While you may not agree with the order, we hope you enjoy the stories of these epic races that have helped make this sport what it is today. You can read the introduction to the series and see the list of races here.
Starting today, exactly 75 years on from the very first race of the inaugural championship, David Tremayne looks back at the 1981 Spanish Grand Prix as legendary driver Gilles Villeneuve showcased his undoubted talent...

Unlock exclusive F1 content and more with F1 Unlocked. Totally free.
Membership gets you closer with:
Curated insider content
Live like an F1 insider with exclusive access and VIP experiences
Member benefits, rewards and offers
Next Up
Related Articles
What time is the 2025 United States Grand Prix?
JacquesWhy has Dunne left McLaren's Development Programme?
7 iconic F1 driver numbers and the stories behind them
AnalysisAre Russell and Antonelli Mercedes' long-term future?
Beyond The GridAllan McNish on his F1 journey and winning ‘the Audi way’
What the F1 drivers have been up to ahead of Austin