From the old box: Reutemann takes first place in championship on birthday

Argentinian driver Carlos Reutemann, who has passed away from us at the age of 79, raced the Grand Prix in his home country 42 years ago. This race (which also took place on his birthday) he finished second. Despite finishing second, he still climbed to first place in the standings.

On Reutemann's 39th birthday, it was Nelson Piquet who took the then still nine points. Reutemann finished second, allowing him to add six points as a birthday present. These six points pushed him into first place in the championship.

Less than two years ago, Reutemann passed away. A stomach haemorrhage killed him in Santa Fe hospital in Argentina.

Taking first place in the championship on his birthday in his home country. Very few can say that. Reutemann's name will forever reverberate in motorsport.

Watch the summary of the 1981 Argentine Grand Prix here