What Happened On This Day January 23 In F1 History?

What happened on this day, January 23 in Formula 1 history? Find out interesting facts and stories about Formula 1 on this day.

1972

High temperatures in the high 80’s°F challenged drivers at the 1972 Argentine Grand Prix, but Jackie Stewart in a Tyrrell seized the lead at the start and dominated the race, securing his 19th career victory. Carlos Reutemann had clinched pole position in the final moments of qualifying, but Stewart’s quicker start left him trailing. The McLaren of Denny Hulme came home in second, with Jacky Ickx taking third for Ferrari.

1972 Argentine Grand Prix Race Results

1977

Carlos Reutemann achieved his first victory for Ferrari at the 1977 Brazilian Grand Prix, marking his second win at the event. McLaren driver James Hunt initially led the race but had to pit and relinquish the lead, ultimately securing second place, while Reutemann’s teammate, Niki Lauda, finished third. Post-race, Carlos Pace accused Hunt of dangerous driving, claiming, “He came much too close to me to overtake,” Pace fumed. “There was plenty of room for him to pass and yet he cannoned into mine. The nose covering and radiator were torn off and I was forced to stop.” Pace’s car sustained significant damage, forcing him to retire. Hunt dismissed Pace’s complaints and instead criticised the race organisers for cleaning the track, which he argued reduced traction—a point underscored by the fact that only seven of the 22 starters finished the race. Hunt also criticised the media for what he described as harassment.

1977 Brazilian Grand Prix Race Results

1982

The 1982 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami was marred by a contentious standoff between the drivers and FISA, the sport’s governing body, which nearly led to the race’s cancellation. The conflict arose over new “super licence” requirements, which the drivers argued restricted their ability to negotiate contracts mid-season. After spending Thursday confined to their hotel, the drivers boycotted Friday’s practice session. A last-minute agreement allowed the race to proceed, but immediately following the event, FISA suspended 29 drivers’ licenses. Alain Prost clinched victory in his Renault, despite battling severe tyre vibrations that obscured his dashboard readings. His teammate, Rene Arnoux, claimed third after facing similar issues, while the Williams of Carlos Reutemann finished second. Keke Rosberg overcame a gear knob issue to finish fifth despite it all but blocking the pedals of his Williams car. The race also marked Niki Lauda’s impressive return to Formula One after a two-year break, finishing fourth. “Niki was just fantastic… so fit,” praised McLaren co-boss Ron Dennis. “It went better than we dared hope.”

1982 South African Grand Prix Race Results

2003

Eddie Irvine announced his retirement from Formula One after failing to secure a seat for the season. Former team boss Eddie Jordan lamented, “It’s a sad day for Formula One that Eddie can’t continue. With Jordan, Ferrari especially, and Jaguar he’s shown great style and lots of character. He has done well out of Formula One and Formula One has been richer for his colourful and intelligent presence.” Renault’s team manager, Flavio Briatore, remarked, “Eddie was a throwback to former times – a driver who liked to party and enjoy himself but also took his profession very seriously.”

F1 Driver Birthdays 23 January

F1 Driver Deaths 23 January