The American Influence on the Canadian Grand Prix
The first Canadian Grand Prix held in 1961 at Mosport Park, was pivotal in motorsport history. Originally a can-am series race, a popular motorsport series in North America, it served as a platform for many of the big names in F1, such as Gurney, Hill, Stewart, Brabham, McLaren, and Rindt, to showcase their skills. This transition from the Can-Am series to Formula 1 marked a significant shift in the history of the Canadian Grand Prix, elevating its status and setting the stage for its future in Formula 1. The 'Canadian Grand Prix' officially entered the Formula 1 championship calendar during the 1967 season and was won by Jack Brabham, driving for his Brabham-RepCo team. The Canadian Grand Prix, now the ninth oldest on the F1 calendar, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts.
The North American home races of Canada and Watkins Glen have witnessed the daring participation of numerous American drivers in F1. The proximity to the US often led American drivers to participate in one-off races in the US GP and Canadian GP, infusing these events with a uniquely American flavor. Notable American drivers who attempted the Canadian Grand Prix include Mike Fisher (‘67), Tom Jones ('67), Pete Lovely (‘69 & ‘71), Skip Barber ('71 & '72), Mark Donohue (‘71 & ‘74), Bobby Rahal (1978), and Kevin Cogan ('80).
Americans Success in Canada
1973 Canadian GP Winner Peter Revson (McLaren)
Peter Revson won the 1973 Canadian GP, the first Formula 1 race to feature a safety car, a yellow Porsche 914.
The First Safety Car in Formula 1 (Yellow Porsche 914)
Mario Andretti finished third on the podium during the 1976 Canadian GP for John Player Team Lotus. In 1983, American Eddie Cheever, a seasoned racer who had participated in eight Canadian Grand Prix, finished second with Renault, tying for his best finish in F1. This achievement not only showcased Cheever's skill and determination but also highlighted the significant contributions of American drivers to the Canadian Grand Prix and Formula 1 as a whole.
Eddie Cheever (2nd-Renault)-Rene Arnoux (1st-Ferrari)-Patrick Tambay (3rd-Ferrari)
