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
10 of the best F1 bromances from over the years
Watch the drivers face Grill the Grid’s ‘spot the mistake’ challenge
Who did these new F1 teams pick as their first drivers?
AnalysisWhy Cadillac decided to go for Perez and Bottas
Wheatley turning pressure ‘into something positive’ for Audi arrival
Half Term Reports 2025How Mercedes’ 2025 season has played out so far