1973 German Grand Prix

Previous race

At Zandvoort, Stewart won his 26th career Grand Prix, surpassing Jim Clark’s record for most victories in Formula One. The race was overshadowed by the death of Roger Williamson, who was trapped in his burning car on lap 8 after a suspected tyre failure pitched it into the barriers. David Purley abandoned his own race and crossed the live track to attempt a rescue but could not right the car unaided, and the marshals — who lacked flame-retardant overalls — could not help. The race continued and Williamson died of asphyxiation before a fire truck could reach the scene. Purley was awarded the George Medal for his bravery.

Between-race developments

March have withdrawn from the German Grand Prix in the aftermath of Williamson’s death. Ferrari are also absent, citing internal political issues and the car’s uncompetitiveness; the team have released Jacky Ickx to drive a third works McLaren entry. Brabham and Surtees each add a third car — Rolf Stommelen for Brabham, Jochen Mass for Surtees. Hesketh, Ensign, and Tecno are also absent from the Nürburgring.

Entrants

Fittipaldi starts at the Nürburgring still recovering from the ankle injuries sustained in Dutch practice.