Jochen Rindt: Uncrowned King of Formula 1

By David Tremayne, Evro Publishing, 496 pages, paperback

Stirling Moss: The Authorized Biography

By Robert Edwards , Orion Publishing Co., 266 pages, paperback

James Hunt: The Biography

By Gerald Donaldson, Virgin Books, 400 pages, paperback

For the month of June, I’ve selected a variety of Formula 1 related biographies. This in advance of the highly anticipated Brad Pitt ‘F1’ movie, which is soon to be released, having had over a year’s worth of build-up and promotion. We’ll soon see if it was worth the wait. But will it be a true reflection of Formula 1, in an historical sense, or just a snapshot of the current iteration that is full of artificial glitz and glamour, with drivers endlessly whining on the radio?

Maybe now is the perfect time to step back and revisit Formula 1 in its early years. ‘The Golden Age’. A time that called upon a driver’s skill, daring, and bravery to navigate extremely dangerous tracks in cars that did not include all the safety advancements we now take for granted.

The technology surrounding the sport has obviously progressed throughout the years, but I contend the quality of driving has not. ‘Back in the day’ the connection a driver had with his race car while at speed was pure, and without outside assistance or manipulation. Simply said the drivers in the early years of F1 were ‘as one with the car’ to a greater degree than in today’s era. For a driver to stand above their peers in the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, etc. was a sign that they were an extra special breed.

Jochen Rindt holds the unique and sad distinction of being the only Formula One Champion to be crowned posthumously, in 1970, after losing his life in the Italian Grand Prix. Known for his incredible car-control, Rindt had become a force to be reckoned with in the late 60’s driving for the Lotus team under Colin Chapman. This wonderful book tells his story, along with giving us (the reader) a glimpse of the Formula 1 Grand Prix world at the time.

Stirling Moss holds the distinction of being known as the greatest Grand Prix driver never to have won a championship. Driving in an era with the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio, who many believe is the greatest driver of all-time, certainly kept Moss from achieving that elusive championship. But he was known for his versatility, being a renowned sports car driver as well. This book chronicles the amazing racing life of a driver who became an international star, and who in later life was known as ‘Sir Stirling Moss’.

Many believe James Hunt holds the distinction of being the ultimate Formula 1 playboy. As you’ll read in the book, he led a life outside the car that was just as fast and freewheeling as his driving style. He was charismatic and his presence was larger than life. His story is closely linked with that of Niki Lauda and their battle for the championship in 1976. The movie ‘RUSH’, released in 2013, focused on their epic battle for the F1 title. This book goes into greater detail of that period but also sheds light on Hunt’s overall incredible, yet short career.

Formula 1 has grown in popularity over the past few years and has brought in a whole new fan base. Many of whom I fear have no sense of history and are unaware of the great drivers, teams, and rivalries that had come before. I highly recommend any F1 fan to look at these books, and others, and learn about the history of F1 and it’s memorable personalities. For these are the shoulders that today’s stars stand upon. Enjoy!

TJ…..2025