Death of Queen Wisell

La Formula 1 lost one of its pilots from the golden age of the 20s on Sunday March 1970. Reine Wisell, aged 80, died suddenly at his Thai home.

Queen Wisell was one of Sweden's first and best representatives in Formula 1 at the same time as her compatriot, Ronnie Peterson. Both have also driven for Lotus in F1, but the comparison ends there.

Reine Wisell, unlike Ronnie Peterson, has never won a Grand Prix, despite a thunderous debut. Called by Colin Chapman to replace Jochen Rindt, who died during practice for the 1970 Monza Grand Prix, Reine Tore Leif Wisell placed third at Watkins Glen in the United States Grand Prix.

Obtaining a starting wheel at Lotus in 1971, Reine Wisell narrowly missed the podium on several occasions and disappointed Colin Chapman, who did not keep it at the end of the season. His main feat of arms was obtained in Pau, where he won the Grand Prix contested with Formula 2.

Transferred to BRM in 1972, the Swede only saw the checkered flag once, at Monza, in a modest 12th position. The results do not follow and the doors of F1 will close after 22 GP starts, a podium and 13 points scored.

Like many pilots of his time, Reine Wisell was not limited to car. The spectators of 24 Hours of Le Mans were able to admire it aboard a Mirage boat or a Lola T280, and even a Ferrari 512 S from the Team Filipinetti between 1969 and 1974 but never saw the finish in four starts.

Retired from competition, Reine Wisell continued to advise her young compatriots like Felix Rosenqvist. The Arrow Pilot McLaren SP paid tribute to him on Facebook: “One of our rare F1 drivers and avid supporter of our sport has passed away. Thank you for showing us the way and always telling us nice things. »

AUTO editorial staffweeklyo sends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Reine Wisell.