A former Formula 1 driver found himself behind bars in the United States over the weekend after a physical altercation at a junior karting event. Antonio Pizzonia, the 45-year-old Brazilian who raced for Jaguar and Williams, was arrested following an incident where he aimed a flying karate kick at another adult.
The Paddock Incident at Speedsportz
The confrontation occurred on Saturday, 13 January 2026, at the Speedsportz Racing Park in New Caney, Texas. Social media footage captured the moment Pizzonia launched himself at a man in the paddock area, landing a kick to the man's back. The ex-racer then followed up with a punch before the pair were separated by onlookers.
According to witnesses, the altercation began when the other man was seen wagging his finger at Pizzonia's son, Antonio Pizzonia Neto, who had just competed in the 2026 Superkarts! USA Winter Series, finishing in ninth place.
Arrest, Release, and Social Media Defence
Following the incident, Montgomery County Police arrested Pizzonia and he was taken to a local Texas jail. His official mugshot was subsequently released by the authorities. The former driver was later released from custody.
On Monday, Pizzonia took to Instagram to address the situation. In a statement, he explained his actions, saying he believed his son "was being coerced by an adult" and he "instinctively defended him." He admitted, "Indeed, there was an incident to which today, I would have reacted in a different way," while thanking followers for their support.
From F1 Podiums to Brazilian Stock Cars
Pizzonia's F1 career spanned from 2003 to 2005. His most notable performances came with the Williams team in 2004, where he deputised for the injured Ralf Schumacher. During that stint, he secured seventh-place finishes at the German, Hungarian, and Italian Grands Prix.
He returned to the Williams seat for the final five races of the 2005 season, again finishing seventh at Monza. His final F1 race was at his home Grand Prix in Interlagos, where he collided with teammate Mark Webber. After his time in Formula 1, Pizzonia built an illustrious career in Brazilian stock car racing and also competed in series such as IndyCar and the World Endurance Championship.
The incident has cast an unexpected spotlight on the retired driver, shifting focus from his past racing achievements to his conduct as a father at a junior motorsport event.
