Who was the first Formula One World Drivers' Champion, crowned in 1950?

Nino Farina was the first Formula One World Drivers’ Champion, taking the inaugural title in 1950. He secured the crown by winning the season-ending Italian Grand Prix at Monza for Alfa Romeo.

The 1950 championship was decided over seven rounds, and only the best four results counted toward the final total. Farina finished ahead of Alfa Romeo teammates Juan Manuel Fangio and Luigi Fagioli, who had each been serious title contenders during the season.

Farina’s victory at Monza made him the only driver to win the inaugural championship in his home country. His name is also commonly written as Giuseppe Farina; “Nino” was his familiar name. Fangio won the 1950 Monaco, Belgian, and French rounds, but Farina’s final-race victory gave him the title.