Chequered Past
Chequered Past is a Formula 1 history podcast that dives deep into iconic races, legendary drivers, and forgotten moments from motorsport’s rich and dramatic past. Each episode revisits Grand Prix events that took place on the same date in history, uncovering fascinating stories, on-track controversies, and the evolution of F1 through the decades. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, Chequered Past offers compelling insights and nostalgia-fuelled storytelling from the world’s fastest sport.
Chequered Past
26th June 1906: The Race That Started It All
On June 26, 1906, the world witnessed the birth of Grand Prix racing — and it was anything but refined. In this episode, we journey back to the dusty roads of Le Mans for the first-ever French Grand Prix, where Ferenc Szisz etched his name in motorsport history.
We also mark the birthday of Philippe Streiff — a talented French driver whose career was tragically cut short by a testing accident, but whose courage and contributions off the track became a lasting legacy.
Finally, we revisit the fallout from Ferrari’s infamous use of team orders at the 2002 Austrian Grand Prix, as the FIA handed down a record $1 million fine on this very day — a moment that forced Formula 1 to reckon with the balance between strategy and sportsmanship.
Music by #Mubert Music Rendering