What happened on this day, June 6 in Formula 1 history? Find out interesting facts and stories about Formula 1 on this day.
1960
Jack Brabham clinched victory at the 1960 Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, but the win was marred by an incident involving American racer Dan Gurney. Gurney’s BRM suffered brake failure, causing a fatal crash at the hairpin, claiming the life of a young spectator who had wandered into a prohibited area. The race also saw Innes Ireland and Graham Hill secure their first podium finishes, taking second and third place, respectively.
1982
John Watson orchestrated a remarkable comeback from 17th on the grid in his McLaren to claim victory at the inaugural 1982 Detroit Grand Prix. Watson navigated his way through the pack, benefiting from the better-performing Michelin tyre compounds. Passing 12 cars, Watson found himself in second place behind Keke Rosberg. As Rosberg grappled with mechanical issues and worn tyres, Watson capitalised on the opportunity, eventually overtaking him to secure the win. The race also commemorated Jochen Mass‘s 100th start and marked Didier Peroni’s 10th podium finish.
2007
In a significant decision, the Swiss parliament voted 97 to 77 to overturn the ban on motor racing in Switzerland, a measure imposed after the tragic Le Mans 24 Hours disaster of 1955, which resulted in the deaths of 86 spectators. The race had attracted huge crowds eager to witness the Mercedes team, led by Juan Manuel Fangio, Stirling Moss, and Karl Kling. Tragedy struck when Pierre Levegh, a 50-year-old factory driver for Mercedes-Benz, collided with Lance Macklin’s Austin-Healey 100 during the race. The impact sent Levegh’s Mercedes soaring into the air, crashing into an earth mound meant to protect spectators, claiming the lives of 86 individuals. This remains the deadliest disaster in motorsport history.
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