Can a son of a former Champion make it in F1?

Having a famous last name can open the doors to Formula One for new drivers. During the upcoming 2008 season, another son of a famous F1 driver will enter the pinnacle of motorsport: Nelson Piquet Jr. Nelsinho is the son of three times World Champion Nelson Piquet. In 1981, 1983 and 1987 Nelson Sr. collected the title and made name as one of the best F1 drivers in history.

Nelson Piquet Jr. will join Nico Rosberg whose father became World Champion in 1982. Both drivers are seen as the rising stars of F1.

Other sons of F1 World Champions have had variable success in the pinnacle of motorsport: Michael Andretti, son of 1978 Champion Mario Andretti, came into F1 after a few successful seasons in Champ Car. In 1993, he joined McLaren but his F1 dream was soon shattered as he was replaced by Mika Hakkinen. Another famous name also reappeared in F1 that season: Hill. In 1993, Damon Hill, son of Graham Hill who became champion in 1962 and 1968, entered F1. In 1996, Damon became Champion just like his father. Until today, Damon Hill is the only driver who could repeat the success of his father.

The sons of three time Champion Jack Brabham, who won the title in 1959, 1969 and 1966, entered F1 as well, but without any success.

Nico Rosberg and Nelson Piquet Jr. can now try to match the success of their fathers. Rosberg has already shown what he's made of and with a good car, the young German is, without a doubt, capable to win the Championship one day. Nelson Piquet Jr. still has to prove what he's got. His famous name might have helped him in F1 faster than other drivers, but now the real work starts. He will have to do it on his own from now.