Emilio de Villota

Emilio de Villota Ruíz (26 July 1946 - Present): Spanish racing driver from Madrid who competed in Formula One from 1976 to 1982, participating in 15 Grands Prix across seven seasons without scoring championship points. Father of María de Villota, who tragically died in 2013 following injuries from a testing accident while serving as Marussia F1's test driver. Made his Formula One debut at the 1976 Spanish Grand Prix with McLaren, replacing Jochen Mass who was recovering from injuries. Competed sporadically throughout his F1 career with McLaren, Ensign, Lotus, and March, typically in one-off appearances or part-season drives.

His best qualifying position was 14th at the 1980 Spanish Grand Prix at Jarama. Never secured a permanent full-time Formula One seat, instead competing primarily in Spanish national motorsport while taking F1 opportunities when they arose. More successful in other racing categories, particularly in Spanish touring cars and sports car racing, where he achieved multiple victories and became a prominent figure in Spanish motorsport. Won the Spanish Touring Car Championship and competed successfully at national level throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Also competed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans several times during his career. Post-racing, remained deeply involved in Spanish motorsport as a team manager, consultant, and mentor to younger drivers. Ran his own racing team, de Villota Motorsport, which competed in various Spanish and European series. Became particularly focused on supporting his daughter María's racing career, managing her progression through various categories until her tragic death at age 33.

Following María's death, Emilio became an advocate for improved safety standards in motorsport, particularly in testing environments. Authored the book 'Life is a Gift' about his daughter's life and legacy. Known for his dedication to Spanish motorsport and his family's tragic connection to racing's dangers, de Villota represents the generations of racers whose contributions to the sport extend beyond their on-track results.