BMW: 25 years at the highest level

BMW has been present in Formula 1 for over 25 years. Throughout his years in the premier discipline of motorsport, a look back at the highlights of his presence as an engine manufacturer on the one hand and then as a full-fledged team from 2006.

Published on 29/07/2009 à 11:44

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BMW appeared in the world of Formula 1 first as an engine manufacturer. It was in 1982 that the Bavarian manufacturer took its first steps in the discipline by joining forces with Brabham. Over three years, BMW and Brabham would score eight victories and even win the Drivers' World Championship with Nelson Piquet in 1983. The Brazilian was thus the first driver to win the championship with the turbo engine. The last victory for this legendary engine came in 1986 with the Benetton team.

The manufacturer withdrew for the first time before returning to the early 2000s with Williams. From 2000 to 2005, BMW imposed its engine 10 times with the Williams team before launching its own structure at the start of the 2006 season by purchasing Sauber. The first season allowed the team to take fifth place in the Manufacturers' Championship before rising to second place the following season following the exclusion of McLaren due to espionage.

The 2007 season was one of confirmation with a first victory won by the Pole Robert Kubica at the Canadian Grand Prix. Third in the Manufacturers' standings, the team managed to score 135 points and reach the podium 11 times. Unfortunately, the 2009 season which was to see the team fight for the title did not meet expectations. With only eight points scored in ten Grand Prix, BMW is currently eighth in the Manufacturers' standings, 106 points behind Brawn GP, the leader. Disappointing performances which got the better of the firm?s commitment to the propeller in Formula 1.