During two seasons with a March-BMW in Formula 2 (1977-78), this Argentine driver's performances were nothing more than thoroughly ordinary, despite his having access to competitive machinery. A lacklustre start to his third year in the formula convinced him a switch to the less demanding world of the Aurora F1 championship would be beneficial, and he was right. Racing an Arrows in the final nine rounds of the series, Zunino won one race and finished five others in the top six.

    Somewhat ambitiously, he managed to step into Grand Prix racing at the end of 1979, when Lauda suddenly quit at Montreal, and he started 1980 still driving the second Brabham BT49, but was eased out of the team in mid-season when Rebaque took his place. Ricardo was back with Brabham at the start of 1981, but only for the non-championship South African GP, in which he finished eighth.

    He then joined Tyrrell to contest the two South American rounds, before giving way to a shining new talent by the name of Michele Alboreto.

(c) 'Who is Who' by Steve Small, 2000