- Born
- Died
- Birth nameJoseph Gilles Henri Villeneuve
- Nickname
- The Aviator
- Gilles Villeneuve was born on January 18, 1950 in St.-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec, Canada. He was married to Johanne Barthe. He died on May 8, 1982 in Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.
- SpouseJohanne Barthe(October 17, 1970 - May 8, 1982) (his death, 2 children)
- Children
- ParentsSeville VilleneuveGeorgette Coupal Villeneuve
- RelativesJacques Villeneuve (II)(Sibling)
- Ex-Formula One racing driver, who raced for: McLaren (1977 (1 GP)) and Ferrari (1977 (2 GPs)-1978 (16 GPs)-1979 (15 GPs)-1980 (14 GPs)-1981 (15 GPs)-1982 (4 GPs)). He started 67 Grands Prix, 6 Wins, 2 Pole Positions, 8 Fastest Laps and 13 Podiums. Best ranked in the World Championship: 2nd in 1979.
- Enzo Ferrari would always compare Gilles to pre-war racing sensation Tazio Nuvolari.
- Older brother of Jacques Villeneuve II, Gilles Villeneuve was father of Jacques Villeneuve (older son and 1997 Formula One World Championship) and Melanie (younger daughter).
- 1978 Belgian Grand Prix, Gilles Villeneuve finished 4th place (3 points) and he became the first Canadian driver to score points; 1978 Austrian Grand Prix, Gilles Villeneuve finished 3rd place and he became the first Canadian driver to stand on an Formula 1 podium and 1978 Canadian Grand Prix, Gilles Villeneuve won and he became the first Canadian driver to win.
- The signature "V" on his helmet was designed by his wife, Joann.
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