On Sunday, October 6, 1974, McLaren achieved its first Formula 1 World Championship, a milestone that took place exactly 50 years ago. Under the leadership of team boss Teddy Mayer and with the talented Brazilian driver Emerson Fittipaldi at the wheel, McLaren managed to outpace the competition and make history.
The 1974 season was an exciting and competitive year in Formula 1, with multiple teams vying for the title. Fittipaldi, who had previously become world champion with Lotus in 1972, brought his experience and speed to McLaren. He secured three victories and multiple podium finishes, ultimately earning him the title with a slim three-point lead over his closest rival, Clay Regazzoni of Ferrari.
This championship marked the beginning of McLaren’s rise in Formula 1. The team would grow over the following decades to become one of the most successful and iconic teams in the sport, with legendary drivers such as Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, and Lewis Hamilton leaving their mark on McLaren’s history. To date, McLaren has won 12 driver’s world championships and 8 constructor’s world championships.
There’s a high probability that McLaren will add a 9th constructor’s title this year. The previous one dates back to 1998, a lifetime ago. In his current form, Lando Norris also stands a chance at the driver’s title, potentially succeeding Lewis Hamilton (2008).
