# Elio de Angelis

> Italian racing driver (1958-1986)

**Wikidata**: [Q173115](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q173115)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elio_de_Angelis)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/elio-de-angelis

## Summary
Elio de Angelis was an Italian racing driver renowned for his career in Formula One, competing from 1979 until his death in 1986. Born in Rome, Italy, he achieved notable success, including two Grand Prix wins, and was recognized for his exceptional driving skills and musical talent as a pianist.

## Biography
- **Born:** March 26, 1958, in Rome, Italy
- **Nationality:** Italian
- **Known for:** Formula One racing career and musical talent
- **Employer(s):** Lotus, Brabham (Formula One teams)
- **Field(s):** Auto racing, music

## Contributions
Elio de Angelis secured two Formula One Grand Prix victories during his career, first at the 1981 Austrian Grand Prix and later at the 1985 San Marino Grand Prix. He consistently demonstrated competitive performance, contributing to the Lotus team's standing in the 1980s. Additionally, his musical prowess as a pianist highlighted his multifaceted talents beyond racing.

## FAQs
**What were Elio de Angelis' major achievements in Formula One?**  
De Angelis won two Grands Prix—the 1981 Austrian Grand Prix and the 1985 San Marino Grand Prix—and was a consistent points scorer for the Lotus team.

**Did Elio de Angelis have any notable non-racing talents?**  
Yes, he was an accomplished pianist, showcasing his musical skills in public performances, which distinguished him from many of his racing peers.

**Which teams did Elio de Angelis drive for in his Formula One career?**  
He primarily raced for Team Lotus from 1979 to 1985 and briefly for Brabham in 1986 before his untimely death.

## Why They Matter
Elio de Angelis left a lasting impact on Formula One through his skilled driving and sportsmanship. His victories and consistent performance upheld Lotus's competitiveness during a challenging period for the team. His dual identity as a racing driver and pianist added a unique cultural dimension to the sport, broadening its appeal and humanizing the drivers beyond their on-track personas.

## Notable For
- **Formula One Wins:** 1981 Austrian Grand Prix and 1985 San Marino Grand Prix.
- **Musical Talent:** Recognized pianist who performed publicly.
- **Consistency:** Regular points scorer in the 1980s, contributing to Lotus's championship efforts.
- **Tragic Circumstances:** Died in a helicopter crash at the age of 28 while preparing for the 1986 Monaco Grand Prix.

## Body

### Early Life and Background
Elio de Angelis was born on March 26, 1958, in Rome, Italy, into a wealthy family. His upbringing provided opportunities to pursue both racing and music, fostering his dual passions from an early age.

### Racing Career
De Angelis began his racing career in karting, progressing to Formula Three and eventually securing a seat in Formula One with Team Lotus in 1979. He remained with Lotus for seven seasons, achieving his first victory at the 1981 Austrian Grand Prix and his second at the 1985 San Marino Grand Prix. In 1986, he joined Brabham but tragically died in a helicopter crash on May 15, 1986, at the age of 28, while traveling to the Monaco Grand Prix.

### Musical Talent
Beyond racing, de Angelis was an accomplished pianist. He often performed in public, blending his love for music with his racing career. This unique combination of talents made him a distinctive figure in the motorsport world.

### Legacy
De Angelis' legacy in Formula One is marked by his skillful driving and the potential that remained unfulfilled due to his early death. His contributions to Lotus's performance in the 1980s and his musical achievements continue to be remembered, ensuring his place as one of the sport's memorable personalities. The circumstances of his death also led to improved safety protocols for drivers during race weekends.

## References

1. Munzinger Sport
2. Driver Database
3. Virtual International Authority File
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. Statsf1.com