Which Formula 1 driver is the oldest World Drivers’ Champion, winning the title in 1957?

Juan Manuel Fangio is Formula 1’s oldest World Drivers’ Champion, winning the 1957 title at age 46.

Fangio secured his fifth championship in 1957 while driving for Maserati. He won three races that season, including the German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, where he produced one of his most celebrated drives by recovering from a substantial pit-stop deficit.

His championship-winning age was 46 years and 41 days at the end of the season. Fangio’s record as the oldest champion has stood since the World Championship era began in 1950, despite later generations of drivers competing for much longer careers.

Fangio’s five titles were won with Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari and Maserati. His 1957 championship was his last, and he retired from full-time Formula 1 competition after the following season. The age record is distinct from the record for most championships, which was later equaled and surpassed by other drivers.