Former Ferrari and Williams driver Carlos Reutemann dies aged 79

Former F1 race winner and championship runner-up Carlos Reutemann has died aged 79.

The former Ferrari, Williams and Brabham driver passed away after battling long-standing health issues, related to liver cancer he was diagnosed with in 2017.

The Argentine returned to intensive care shortly before his death having been discharged from hospital in Santa Fe after a 17-day stay in May.

Reutemann's daughter, Cora, said on Twitter: "Dad left in peace and dignity after fighting like a champion with a strong and noble heart that accompanied him to the end.

"I am proud and blessed for the father I had. I know that he will accompany me every day of my life until we meet again in the house of the Lord."

Papá se fue en paz y dignidad después de luchar como un campeón con un corazón noble y fuerte que lo acompañó hasta el final. Siento orgullo y bendición por el padre que tuve. Sé que me acompañará todos los días de mi vida hasta que nos volvamos a encontrar en la casa del Señor🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/84wo3WgfTg

— Cora Reutemann (@CoraReutemann) July 7, 2021

Reutemann took 12 wins and 45 podiums in 146 F1 starts for Brabham, Ferrari, Lotus and Williams, finishing runner-up in the 1981 championship, losing out to Nelson Piquet by a single point.

After retiring from F1, Reutemann served as a governor in his native Argentina, turning down the opportunity to run for the presidency after two spells before becoming a senator.

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Carlos Reutemann.

A revered fighter and 12-time Grand Prix winner, he will be deeply missed. pic.twitter.com/DYbvTOyemQ

— Formula 1 (@F1) July 7, 2021

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