Rubens Gonçalves Barrichello was born on May 23, 1972 in São Paulo, Brazil. His entrance in the motoring happened when he was 9 years old, taking part in the Championship from São Paulo of Kart in the category Junior. He showed his talent soon in the beginning being vice-champion. In 1983 he was Champion of São Paulo and Brazilian Champion in the category Junior. He was the Brazilian Champion once again in 1984, leaving for the category B of the kart in 1985. On this year Barrichello was Champion of São Paulo, and fourth in the Brazilian Championship.

Category A

      He moved to Category A in 86, being Paulista and Brazilian Champion in 86 and 87.