Argentine Grand Prix 1981 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Nelson Piquet claimed a crucial home victory at the Argentine Grand Prix, demonstrating Brabham's championship credentials while the Williams teammates continued their civil war. The Brazilian drove brilliantly at Buenos Aires to take his first win of 1981, capitalizing on the internal strife at Williams to position himself as the primary beneficiary of their dysfunction. Piquet's calculated, consistent approach contrasted sharply with the emotional turmoil engulfing the supposedly superior Williams team.

Carlos Reutemann finished second in his home race, a result that would later prove controversial as questions emerged about whether he had received preferential treatment over Jones. The relationship between the Williams drivers had deteriorated to open hostility, with Jones publicly stating his contempt for the championship battle between his teammate and Piquet. Alain Prost secured third place for Renault, showcasing the Frenchman's emerging talent even as the turbocharged RS30's reliability issues prevented a sustained title challenge. Piquet's Argentine victory established him as the man to beat, combining Brabham's nimble BT49C with tactical intelligence that would ultimately prove decisive in the championship fight.