1974 South African Grand Prix

Previous race

At Interlagos, Fittipaldi took a popular home pole and went on to win after a classic mid-race duel with Peterson. Peterson pitted with a puncture — believed to have been caused by glass still on the track — and Fittipaldi led Regazzoni and Ickx to the flag. Heavy rain stopped the race after 32 of the scheduled 40 laps.

Between-race developments

The South African Grand Prix was initially in doubt due to the 1973 oil crisis, but has been confirmed — pushed back to the end of March rather than the usual early-month slot.

Practice was overshadowed by the death of Peter Revson. During a test session before the race, Revson suffered a front suspension failure on his Shadow on the outside of Barbecue Bend and crashed heavily into the Armco barrier, the car bursting into flames. Revson died instantly. The Shadow team has withdrawn from the race.

Lotus have arrived with an innovative new car featuring four pedals and an electric clutch, stunning the paddock.

Entrants

This weekend marks the Formula One World Championship debut of constructor Hesketh, as well as drivers Vittorio Brambilla and local entrant Ian Scheckter.

Qualifying

Niki Lauda takes pole by a fraction of a second from Carlos Pace’s Surtees. Arturo Merzario qualifies an impressive third in the Iso-Marlboro.