Former F1 Driver Antonio Pizzonia Arrested on Assault Charge in the U.S.

Former Formula 1 driver Antonio Pizzonia was arrested in Texas last weekend on an assault charge, according to a report. The 45-year-old Brazilian, who raced for Jaguar and Williams in the early 2000s, was allegedly involved in an incident while attending a karting event to support his son. Details surrounding the alleged assault remain scarce at this time.

Why it matters:

The arrest brings negative attention to a former member of the Formula 1 community, reminding fans that the actions of those associated with the sport, past or present, can reflect on its public image. While Pizzonia is no longer an active figure in F1, the news serves as a stark off-track story that contrasts with the on-track drama the sport is known for.

The details:

• The Arrest: Pizzonia was arrested and booked in a Texas jail last Saturday, as reported by TMZ.
• The Context: He was at the Speedsportz Racing Park for the 2026 Superkarts USA Winter Series, where his son was competing.
• F1 Career: Pizzonia competed in F1 from 2003 to 2005.
  • He started the 2003 season with Jaguar before being replaced by Justin Wilson.
  • He later raced for Williams in 2004 and 2005 as a stand-in, scoring three seventh-place finishes across four races.
• Information Gap: Specific details about the alleged assault have not been released.

What's next:

The legal process for Pizzonia will now begin, and further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses. The F1 community will be watching to see how the situation unfolds, but for now, the focus remains on the developing legal proceedings rather than any motorsport-related consequences.