Sadly died, aged only 43, after a long battle against cancer. Between his Formula 3000 spell and his illness, Fermin raced for many years in endurance racing, twice winning the Sebring 12 hours (1995 and 1997). He also became the 1995 IMSA Champion and the 1987 and 1989 Group C2 World Champion. The co-founder of Spice Engineering, Fermin started racing in 1977 in Formula SEAT and then competed in rallies and hillclimbing before moving into sportscars. Velez carried on racing until just after his spell in the IRL before stopping after being diagnosed with cancer. A race in his honour - the Fermin Velez Trophy - is still held every year; it's a touring car endurance race at Barcelona's circuit.

Biography last updated 20 Nov 2016