How did Patrick Tambay die? Former Formula 1 Ferrari driver, 73, was 'one of the true stars of the '80s'

PARIS, FRANCE: Former Formula 1 driver Patrick Tambay died at the age of 73, as confirmed by his family on Sunday, December 4. His death comes after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. On Sunday, December 4, Ferrari's official Instagram page paid tribute to the French driver. "We are all truly saddened by the news of the passing of Patrick Tambay. He was one of the true stars of the 80s winning two races with the Scuderia and contributing to winning the Manufacturers’ titles in 1982 and 1983," the caption read.

The French driver had a remarkable career as he featured in nine F1 seasons between 1977 and 1986. He competed in F1 in two spells, first between 1977 and 1979, and then from 1981 to 1986. The sportsperson entered 123 races and secured two wins including the 1982 German Grand Prix and the San Marino GP the following year. His well-established career’s best finish in the driver's championship was seen in 1983 when he finished fourth behind Nelson Piquet, Alain Prost, and Rene Arnoux, as reported by the Daily Mail. Benefitting from Tambay’s racing, Ferrari held the World Constructors' Championships title in both 1982 and 1983.

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During his time in F1, Tambay raced for McLaren, Renault, and Team Haas. He also competed in the 24-hour Le Mans races four times and finally made it to the finish on his fourth attempt in 1989. He was also interested in skiing and was a junior champion before focusing on his racing career. His time in F1 featured five pole positions and 11 podium finishes, including wins at Germany and Saint-Marin. Tambay also tried his hand at politics and was known for his commentary work in his native France after the end of his racing career. He was the deputy mayor of the Cannes suburb Le Cannet, as reported by the outlet. Tambay resumed his career on the racing track after retirement as he took part in the Grand Prix Masters series for retired drivers in 2005 and 2006.

Patrick Tambay's time in F1 featured five pole positions and 11 podium finishes, including wins at Germany and Saint-Marin. Mandatory Credit: Mike Powell/Allsport

His son Adrien debuted in 2012 as a junior driver of Audio. He was crowned the first FIA ETCR champion on Sunday, September 25, 2022. On the other hand, the late French driver is the godfather of his friend Gilles Villeneuve’s son Jacques Villeneuve, 1997 F1 world champion. Gilles Villeneuve died in 1982 as a result of a fatal accident.

Patrick Tambay competed in the 24-hour Le Mans races four times and finally made it to the finish on his fourth attempt in 1989. (Photo by Pascal Rondeau/Getty Images)