Believe it or not, F1 has hosted Grand Prix races on New Year’s Day. Specifically, one race was held on January 1, with two others on adjacent days. All three races were part of the South African Grand Prix series in the 1960s.
The history of Formula 1, especially leading up to the 1990s, is filled with fascinating anecdotes and historic events that may seem unbelievable today. The New Year’s Day Grands Prix are just one example of the incredible moments from that era. From races on unconventional tracks to teams and drivers competing with minimal resources, the sport had a magical charm back then.
1962 South African GP The first of the New Year’s Day Grands Prix was the 1962 South African GP, held on December 29 at the Prince George Circuit in East London, South Africa. Graham Hill, driving for British Racing Motors (BRM), won the race, clinching both the world championship title and BRM’s only Constructors’ Championship.
1965 South African GP The 1965 South African GP, held on January 2, was actually part of the 1964 season but postponed. The race featured cars from the previous year since the championship had already been decided, with John Surtees as the champion for Ferrari.
1968 South African GP The 1968 South African GP stands out as the only race in history held on New Year’s Day, on January 1. This event was significant as it marked Jim Clark’s last race before his tragic accident in a Formula 2 race in April.
Author: Scuderia Fans
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