Mika Salo

Interesting facts

Mika Salo built his F1 reputation as the sport's most dependable 'super-sub': in 1999 he stood in for injured BAR driver Ricardo Zonta, delivering the team's best result of the season with seventh place. That performance caught Ferrari's attention after Schumacher broke his leg at the British Grand Prix - Salo deputised for six races, and two podiums contributed decisively to Ferrari's first constructors' title since 1983, won by just four points. At the German Grand Prix he was leading and closing in on a maiden win when team orders forced him to hand the lead to title contender Eddie Irvine - Irvine later gave him the winner's trophy as a gesture of thanks. Never winning a race himself, Salo built his career and reputation on professionalism and accepting team decisions, becoming remembered as one of F1's best-ever substitute drivers. Mika Salo made his Formula 1 debut in 1994 and raced until 2002, 8 seasons in total as a Finnish driver. He scored a total of 33 championship points over his career.