Former Formula 1 Driver Tarso Marques Apprehended for Driving Unlicensed Lamborghini in Sao Paulo
Former Formula 1 driver Tarso Marques was recently apprehended for driving an unlicensed Lamborghini in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The 49-year-old was found behind the wheel of the luxury vehicle, which had been reported stolen, on the Cidade Jardim Bridge during the early hours of a Sunday morning. Marques, who was Fernando Alonso's teammate at Minardi in 2001, was driving the Lamborghini Gallardo without number plates, and it was later discovered that the car had legal issues dating back to 2013.
The police uncovered that the Lamborghini, valued at over 1.2 million Brazilian Reais, had accumulated debts exceeding R$1.3 million. Additionally, the car was registered to a company involved in illegal activities, including pyramid schemes. Marques attempted to switch the plates upon noticing the police inspection but was apprehended and taken to the 14th Police Station in Sao Paulo. He was charged with receiving stolen goods and tampering with a motor vehicle identification number before being released on bail.
Tarso Marques began his racing career by winning the Formula Chevrolet title in Brazil at the age of 16. He later competed in Formula 1 with Minardi, partnering with Alonso in 2001. Despite a promising season, Marques did not secure a long-term F1 career and transitioned to Champ Car racing in the United States. After retiring from professional racing, he ventured into broadcasting and vehicle customization shows. Marques comes from a racing family, with his father, Paulo de Tarso, also being a former driver, and his brother, Thiago, pursuing a racing career as well.
In contrast, Alonso, a two-time world champion, continues to compete in Formula 1 at the age of 44. Currently driving for Aston Martin, Alonso is gearing up for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza.