FeatureF1 Unlocked
UNDERDOG TALES: When Maldonado took Williams back to the top on a remarkable day in the Spanish sun
Share
Just over a decade ago, Pastor Maldonado delivered one of the greatest underdog victories in F1 history as he hauled his Williams to pole position and victory – via a scrap with Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso – at the 2012 Spanish Grand Prix. We sat down with the Venezuelan to remember a special performance that marked the first F1 triumph for his country – and remains the most recent win for the famous British team...
Pastor Maldonado’s promotion to F1 in 2011 made plenty of headlines across the media. Despite winning races in Formula Renault, Euroseries 3000, Formula Renault 3.5 and GP2, where he beat Sergio Perez to the title, many focused on the financial backing the Venezuelan brought to Williams, who had freed up a space by parting ways with Nico Hulkenberg at the end of a promising rookie season.
To read on, sign up to F1 Unlocked for free
You'll unlock this article and get access to:
- Live Advanced Timings
- Epic experiences and rewards
- Money-can’t-buy competitions
Already have an account?
Sign InLoading...
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
VideoF1 Unlocked WATCH: All the best up close and unseen moments from inside The O2 at F1 75 Live
Image GalleryF1 Unlocked GALLERY: All the best driver and celebrity arrivals from the red carpet at F1 75 Live
Poll POLL: From moment of the season to smoothest driver – Have your say in the 2024 F1 Topps Awards
Feature TEAM PREVIEW: Will Alpine build on their promising upturn of form in 2025?
