From Motorsport · Ben Vinel · · 1m
Emerson Fittipaldi on Jochen Rindt’s death
Emerson Fittipaldi became Team Lotus’ F1 leader after Jochen Rindt’s fatal crash.
In brief
Emerson Fittipaldi became Team Lotus’ F1 leader after Jochen Rindt’s fatal crash. Emerson Fittipaldi replaced Jochen Rindt as Team Lotus’ F1 driver following Rindt’s death in 1970. Originally reported by Motorsport.
Emerson Fittipaldi’s early F1 career
In 1970, Brazil had no successful F1 driver, but 23-year-old Emerson Fittipaldi was rising in Formula 2 with Lotus.
Jochen Rindt’s fatal crash
Rindt died in qualifying practice for the 1970 Italian Grand Prix after a crash.
Fittipaldi steps in
Fittipaldi replaced Rindt in Formula 2 after breakfast with Rindt, who invited him to drive.
“We had breakfast together. He invited me to replace him in Formula 2. I accepted, I shook his hand, and a few hours later he got killed.”
Colin Chapman’s support
Chapman promised full support to Fittipaldi as Team Lotus’ number-one driver after Rindt’s death.
“Emerson, you will be our number-one driver. I said, Colin, I don't have experience. He said, We are going to support you 100%.”
Fittipaldi’s performance
Fittipaldi won his first grand prix at Watkins Glen, helping Lotus secure its fourth world title.
Chapman’s emotional impact
Chapman felt deep grief after losing Rindt, saying he feared losing Fittipaldi too.
“Emerson, I don't want to get very close to you, I am afraid one day I can lose you.”
The short version
Emerson Fittipaldi replaced Jochen Rindt as Team Lotus’ F1 driver following Rindt’s death in 1970.
