Formula One drivers from South Africa in any of them. Though he never finished higher than 12th place, he is statistically the country's fourth most experienced driver. Additional to those detailed above the following drivers started at least one race: Formula One drivers from South Africa There have been 23 Formula One drivers from South Africa, with 18 of them having started at least one Grand Prix, and only 4 of them having started more than four races. Jody Scheckter is by far the most prolific and successful South African driver, being the only one to have won a race. During his nine-year career Scheckter won
1980 Formula One season emergence of Nelson Piquet as a championship contender and the debut of Alain Prost, while reigning champions Jody Scheckter and Ferrari suffered a terrible season that resulted in Scheckter retiring from the sport at the end of the year. In addition, Frenchman Patrick Depailler lost his life while testing at Hockenheim. The following drivers and constructors contested the 1980 World Championship of Drivers and the 1980 International Cup for F1 Constructors. The 1980 Formula One season started in Argentina in January. This event, held at the Buenos Aires Municipal Autodrome located in the sprawling Argentine capital started off badly. After