Giancarlo Baghetti became only the third driver in Formula One history to win his debut World Championship race.
Key Facts
- Date
- 2 July 1961
- Circuit
- Reims
- Race number in season
- 4 of 8
- Winner
- Giancarlo Baghetti
- Baghetti's WC race wins
- 1 (only this race)
- Previous debut winners
- Nino Farina (1950), Johnnie Parsons (1950)
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The 1961 Formula One season operated under new regulations, and Giancarlo Baghetti entered the French Grand Prix at Reims as a newcomer making his first start in a major World Championship Grand Prix, having not previously competed at this level.
Held on 2 July 1961 at Reims, the French Grand Prix was the fourth round of the 1961 World Championship of Drivers. Baghetti drove to victory, claiming first place in his debut World Championship race start.
Baghetti's win made him only the third driver ever to win his first World Championship race, joining Nino Farina and Johnnie Parsons. However, it proved to be his sole Championship victory; he never again finished in the top three in a World Championship event.