F1 ICONS: Melanie Villeneuve on her father Gilles, the legendary Ferrari racer


Gilles Villeneuve is regarded as one of the fastest drivers in F1 history who missed out on a world title, with the Canadian’s life and career cruelly cut short amid controversy involving Ferrari team mate Didier Pironi. Following the release of the documentary Villeneuve Pironi – Racing’s Untold Tragedy, Gilles’ daughter, Melanie, shares some early memories of her dad, his lasting legacy and how the family plan to honour him moving forward…
I was raised on the tracks with my dad, my mum Joann and my brother Jacques.

Unlock exclusive F1 content and more with F1 Unlocked. Totally free.
Membership gets you closer with:
Curated insider content
Live like an F1 insider with exclusive access and VIP experiences
Member benefits, rewards and offers
Next Up
Related Articles
F1 ExplainsAsk a Team Principal with Kick Sauber's Jonathan Wheatley
How 'F1 The Movie' is influencing fan fashion at Grands Prix
Mekies expects Red Bull have ‘mountain to climb’ with 2026 engine
How Daniel Ricciardo became F1’s joyful fashion icon
Alonso reveals the drive that he ranks as his best in F1 so far
Cadillac have picked 'the right guys' – Hamilton