1977 Japanese Grand Prix

Previous race

At Mosport, Andretti and Hunt led the race comfortably, well clear of the rest of the field, until a misunderstanding between the two McLarens as they lapped Mass resulted in a collision and Hunt’s retirement. Andretti continued until his engine failed with three laps left, handing victory to Scheckter. Depailler was second and Mass third. Hunt was subsequently fined $2,000 for punching a marshal who was attempting to usher him away from the track.

Entrants

Ian Scheckter — Jody’s older brother, who drives for March — is denied entry into Japan. Japanese authorities object on the basis that he holds a South African passport with only a tourist visa; Jody Scheckter, holding a working visa, is permitted to compete.

Andretti and Hunt continue their late-season battle at Fuji Speedway in the season finale. Andretti takes pole position.