Swiss Grand Prix facts for kids
The Swiss Grand Prix (also known as Grand Prix de la Suisse in French and Großartiges Prix von der Schweiz in German) was a famous motor race held in Switzerland. In its later years, it became a part of the exciting Formula One racing series.
This race has a long history, starting way back in 1934. It was known for its challenging tracks and thrilling competitions.
| Dijon-Prenois (France) | |
 |
|
| Race information | |
|---|---|
| Number of times held | 16 |
| First held | 1934 |
| Last held | 1982 |
| Most wins (drivers) |  Rudolf Caracciola (3) |
| Most wins (constructors) |  Mercedes (5) |
| Circuit length | 3.800 km (2.361 mi) |
| Race length | 304.000 km (188.897 mi) |
| Laps | 80 |
| Last race (1982) | |
| Pole position | |
|
|
| Podium | |
| Fastest lap | |
|
|
Contents
History of the Swiss Grand Prix
Early Years and the Bremgarten Circuit
Grand Prix racing began in Switzerland in 1934. The first races were held at the Bremgarten circuit. This track was located just outside the town of Bremgarten, close to Bern.
The Bremgarten track was quite challenging. It was known for its fast corners and tree-lined sections. From 1935 to 1939, the Swiss Grand Prix was part of the important European Championship. The Bremgarten circuit hosted the race until 1954.
Racing Ban and Return in France
In 1958, the Swiss government made a big decision. They banned motor racing in Switzerland. This happened after a very serious accident at the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans race, where many people were hurt. The government decided that motor racing was too dangerous for spectators.
Even with the ban, the Swiss Grand Prix did return for two more races. However, these races could not be held in Switzerland. Instead, they took place at the Dijon-Prenois circuit in France. This circuit was just across the border.
In 1975, a Swiss Grand Prix was held at Dijon-Prenois. It was a non-Championship race, meaning it didn't count for the main Formula One title. The last time the Swiss Grand Prix was part of the official Formula One World Championship was in 1982.
Swiss Grand Prix Winners
Drivers with Multiple Wins
Some drivers were so good they won the Swiss Grand Prix more than once!
- Rudolf Caracciola from Germany won three times. He won in 1935, 1937, and 1938.
- Alberto Ascari from Italy won twice, in 1949 and 1953.
- Juan Manuel Fangio from Argentina also won twice, in 1951 and 1954.
Winning Teams (Constructors)
Many famous racing teams, called constructors, have won the Swiss Grand Prix.
- Mercedes from Germany has the most wins with five victories. They won in 1935, 1937, 1938, 1939, and 1954.
- Alfa Romeo from Italy won four times. Their wins were in 1947, 1948, 1950, and 1951.
- Ferrari from Italy also won four times. They took victories in 1949, 1952, 1953, and 1975.
Winning Engine Manufacturers
The engines are a super important part of a race car. Here are the engine manufacturers that powered the winning cars:
- Mercedes engines won five times.
- Alfa Romeo engines won four times.
- Ferrari engines also won four times.
Race Results by Year
The Swiss Grand Prix was held many times over the years. Here's a look at some of the winners and where the races took place.
| Year | Winning Driver | Winning Team | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1935 | Rudolf Caracciola |
Mercedes-Benz | Bremgarten |
| 1936 | Bernd Rosemeyer |
Auto Union | |
| 1937 | Rudolf Caracciola |
Mercedes-Benz | |
| 1938 | Rudolf Caracciola |
Mercedes-Benz | |
| 1939 | Hermann Lang |
Mercedes-Benz | |
| 1940 – 1946 |
Not held | ||
| 1947 |  Jean-Pierre Wimille |
Alfa Romeo | Bremgarten |
| 1948 |  Carlo Felice Trossi |
Alfa Romeo | |
| 1949 | Alberto Ascari |
Ferrari | |
| 1950 | Nino Farina |
Alfa Romeo | Bremgarten |
| 1951 |  Juan Manuel Fangio |
Alfa Romeo | |
| 1952 | Piero Taruffi |
Ferrari | |
| 1953 | Alberto Ascari |
Ferrari | |
| 1954 | Juan Manuel Fangio |
Mercedes | |
| 1955 – 1974 |
Not held | ||
| 1975 |  Clay Regazzoni |
Ferrari | Dijon (France) |
| 1976 – 1981 |
Not held | ||
| 1982 |  Keke Rosberg |
Williams-Ford | Dijon (France) |
See also
In Spanish: Gran Premio de Suiza para niños
