1970 season in Formula 1: Lotus is unbeaten in two consecutive seasons

1970 season in Formula 1: Lotus is unbeaten in two consecutive seasons

As the 1970s F1 season began, the Lotus team experienced its renaissance. The car they present is a skillful combination of speed and aerodynamics, and the final touch that makes it a winner is the driver. The star of Johan Rindt, who in the previous season remained fourth and seemingly out of the competitors' accounts, is rising.

The Austrian is undisputed and has secured the world title before the end of the season after 5 convincing victories. After securing the first such trophy in his career, however, the big shock follows. In practice before the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, Rindt lost his life. Thus, the championship remains without its champion, but its asset of points makes it unattainable. The Austrian pilot remains in the history of the sport as the first to be awarded the world title posthumously.

After the tragic accident that marked the 1970 season, the championship ended and the remaining 4 of the total 13 starts on the calendar took place. The Belgian Jackie X with Ferrari finished in second place, with his team-mate Clay Regazzoni occupying the third position. Lotus-Ford unsurprisingly wins the constructors' battle. With the improvements they are making to their car and Rindt's brilliant performance, the British team is without competition. The "black horses" finish second, and the British from March-Ford complete the top three.

Against the background of the battles on the track and in the paddock, the season has also been marked by two more brutal incidents, which again raise a number of questions. Bruce McLaren dies during the team's test practice in England. Brighton Piers Curridge dies at Dutch Grand Prix.

The 1970 season was also the last in Jack Brabham's career. The 3-time world champion from Great Britain officially ends his professional career in Formula 1 after 14 winning starts and 31 podiums.

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