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
19th September 1971: The Race That Raised the Red Flag
On September 19, 1971, Formula One saw history at Mosport Park when the Canadian Grand Prix became the first World Championship race to be stopped with the red flag. Jackie Stewart had already secured his second world title, but torrential rain and fog turned the race into chaos, cutting it short after 64 laps. Stewart took the win, Ronnie Peterson claimed second, and American star Mark Donohue earned his first F1 podium on his debut.
We also celebrate the birthday of Brazilian racer Cristiano da Matta, whose career spanned from CART glory to a brief spell in Formula One, and revisit the 1954 Berlin Grand Prix at AVUS, where Karl Kling’s victory for Mercedes in front of a vast home crowd symbolised Germany’s racing revival.
Cover Image: By Federico Neroni under CC BY 4.0 Link
Music by #Mubert Music Rendering