Luiz Bueno, Brazilian race car driver (d. 2011)

Luiz-Pereira Bueno, universally recognized as Luiz Bueno (born January 16, 1937; passed away February 8, 2011), was a distinguished Brazilian race car driver whose career spanned various disciplines before his brief but notable foray into Formula One.

A prominent figure in Brazilian motorsport throughout the 1960s and early 1970s, Bueno showcased remarkable versatility and talent, excelling particularly in touring car and sports car racing. His accomplishments included securing the Brazilian Touring Car Championship title in 1969, solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor on the national scene.

Luiz Bueno's sole participation in a Formula One World Championship Grand Prix occurred on February 11, 1973, a historic day for Brazilian motorsport. This event was the inaugural Brazilian Grand Prix, held at the challenging Autódromo de Interlagos in São Paulo, marking the first time the pinnacle of motorsport officially visited Brazil.

For this landmark race, Bueno drove a Brabham BT37 under the banner of Team Bardahl Fittipaldi, an entry that highlighted the growing influence of Brazilian talent in F1. Despite his earnest efforts, his race concluded prematurely due to a suspension issue, preventing him from completing the full distance or scoring any championship points. Notably, this same race was won by compatriot and eventual two-time World Champion, Emerson Fittipaldi, underscoring a pivotal moment for Brazilian excellence in the sport.

Beyond his single championship start, Bueno also competed in several non-championship Formula One races. These events, common during that era, served as crucial testing grounds and competitive opportunities outside the official World Championship calendar, allowing drivers like Bueno to gain valuable experience at the highest level of open-wheel racing.

Luiz Bueno's life and career concluded on February 8, 2011, when he passed away at the age of 74 after a battle with cancer. He remains a respected name in Brazilian motorsport, remembered for his skill and his part in paving the way for future generations of Brazilian racing talent.

Frequently Asked Questions About Luiz Bueno

When was Luiz Bueno born and when did he pass away?
Luiz Bueno was born on January 16, 1937, and passed away on February 8, 2011, at the age of 74.
How many Formula One World Championship Grand Prix races did Luiz Bueno participate in?
He participated in one Formula One World Championship Grand Prix.
Which specific F1 Grand Prix was Luiz Bueno's only World Championship appearance?
His only World Championship appearance was at the 1973 Brazilian Grand Prix, which was the first-ever F1 World Championship race held in Brazil.
What car and team did Luiz Bueno race for in his F1 Grand Prix debut?
For the 1973 Brazilian Grand Prix, Luiz Bueno drove a Brabham BT37 for Team Bardahl Fittipaldi.
Did Luiz Bueno score any Formula One championship points?
No, Luiz Bueno did not score any championship points in his Formula One World Championship Grand Prix appearance.
What was Luiz Bueno's career like beyond Formula One?
Beyond F1, Luiz Bueno was a versatile and successful Brazilian race car driver, particularly active in touring car and sports car racing. He won the Brazilian Touring Car Championship in 1969 and competed in several non-championship Formula One races.