SEASON 1976 IN FORMULA 1: Never underestimate the British

SEASON 1976 IN FORMULA 1: Never underestimate the British

After Niki Lauda's world title triumph, the Austrian faces a new challenge - to defend his trophy. However, standing in his way is James Hunt, who is determined to be above everyone. The 1976 season was among the most contested in Formula 1. The rivalry between the two drivers became legendary and even years later inspired the movie "The Race" released in 2013.

In 1976, Hunt signed a contract with McLaren. This gives him a far better chance of challenging the speed that Ferrari has assured Lauda in his world title defence. Within the season, the two are close in points. However, the contested rivalry between the two is marked by an extreme. In two of the races, ready to dethrone the Austrian champion Hunt, he was disqualified. Something that gives extra points to his opponent. Pressured by the circumstances, Lauda, however, takes actions that lead to a serious accident during the German Grand Prix. Despite the serious injuries he received, the Austrian survived. What's more, to everyone's surprise, he returns to the race after two missed starts. At Monza for the Italian Grand Prix, Lauda is back on the track, with a real chance to fight again for the world top in points.

The title is decided at the last start of the calendar in Formula 1. The Japanese Grand Prix hosts a race from the most elite car race for the first time after signing a 3-year contract with Formula 1. At the "Fuji" above all is James Hunt. Thus the Briton won his first world title. However, in the Constructors' category, McLaren conceded to Ferrari and the "black horses" successfully defended their trophy.