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F1 news

Former F1 driver dies after Christmas dinner incident

Following an incident at home on Christmas Day last year, ex-Formula 1 driver Wilson Fittipaldi has passed away.

Wilson Fittipaldi
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Ex-Formula 1 driver Wilson Fittipaldi has died after suffering a cardiac arrest last Christmas.

Fittipaldi choked on a piece of food on Christmas Day, which is also his birthday, and went into cardiac arrest when his airway was unable to be cleared.

Having been in hospital ever since the incident, Fittipaldi has now passed away at the age of 80.

The Brazillian is part of the wider Fittipaldi family that has a vast reach in the motor racing industry.

Wilson himself competed in 35 F1 races during his career between 1972 and 1975 before setting up an eponymous team with brother and former F1 World Champion Emerson.

The Sao Paulo-born racer's health had deteriorated in recent times - four years ago he suffered a fall at his house.

After being taken to hospital, he was diagnosed with a cerebral haemorrhage before undergoing successful surgery.

Fittipaldi remained active with his motorsport interests and was present in the F1 paddock last year at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

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