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
23rd March 2003: The Day That The Future Arrived
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
On this day in Formula One history, we explore three stories that capture the sport’s constant evolution.
In 2003, the Malaysian Grand Prix signalled a shift in the competitive order. A young Fernando Alonso stunned the paddock with a breakthrough pole and podium, while Kimi Räikkönen claimed the first victory of his career — marking the arrival of a new generation ready to challenge the established names.
We also look at the career of Alex Albon, whose journey to Formula One, away from it, and back again highlights the resilience required to succeed at the highest level of the sport.
And in 1986, the season began in Brazil with a very different story — as Nelson Piquet, newly installed at Williams, delivered a controlled and authoritative victory, while the race itself showed just how quickly fortunes can change in a championship fight.
Three races, three eras, and three very different paths — all part of Formula One’s rich and chequered past.
Cover Image: By Martin Lee - Kimi_Räikkönen_2003_Silverstone_8, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Music by #Mubert Music Rendering