It was pure chaos. On the first lap, Regazzoni’s hopes took a massive blow when he was rear-ended, spinning down to 18th place. His title charge was effectively over.
The American fans got a shock. Local hero Mario Andretti (driving a Parnelli) snatched pole position. The title contenders lined up behind him: Fittipaldi 2nd, Lauda 6th, Regazzoni 9th.
What’s your favorite memory of the 1974 season? Was Fittipaldi a deserving champion, or was Lauda the faster man? Let us know in the comments.