The cultural part of our Annual Report is dedicated to Clay Regazzoni, the world-famous Ticino driver.
Clay Regazzoni (whose real name was Gian Claudio Giuseppe) was born on 5 September 1939 in Lugano. He approached the world of racing cars rather late (at the age of 24) and, after his first experiences in Formula 3, he quickly switched to Formula 2.
Regazzoni was an instinctive driver, with an aggressive and safe driving. His in-depth mechanical knowledge, acquired in his family's workshop, made it easier for him to prepare the racing cars with which he competed.
In 1970 he made his debut in Formula 1 at the wheel of a Ferrari and obtained a resounding victory in the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. In 1979, he won the Grand Prix of Great Britain at Silverstone with the emerging car manufacturer Williams.
At the beginning of 1980 he competed for Ensign (British team), but a dramatic accident at the Long Beach circuit (USA) ended his career in Formula 1 forcing him into a wheelchair.
With courage and determination, in the following years, Clay continued to participate in races, including numerous and gruelling African "marathons" in off-road cars. In this circle of races, there is no shortage of competitions with historic cars.
His extraordinary strength of mind also allowed him to carry out other kinds of undertakings, including the "Clay Regazzoni Club - Let's Help Paraplegia".
In 2000, together with the former skier Michela Figini, he was elected "Ticino sportswoman of the century", a recognition that gave him great satisfaction.
Regazzoni tragically disappeared on 15 December 2006 in a car accident, leaving an indelible trace in the collective memory.
You can contact our call centre between 8 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. Monday to Friday on 00800 800 767 76 (calls from Switzerland are free).
Alternatively, you can use our contact request forms.
