From the Streets of Long Beach to the Heart of Formula 1’s Evolution
This stunning shot from the 1976 United States Grand Prix West at Long Beach recently found its way into our collection, and it’s quickly become a favorite. Taken during practice, it captures a moment that feels worlds apart from today’s Formula 1, highlighting just how much the sport has evolved in the past nearly 50 years.
Long Beach 1976, where Formula 1’s transformation was just beginning. From Emerson Fittipaldi’s bold venture to the race’s unexpected surprises, this photo tells a story of an era that shaped modern F1. (Picture: Archiv AutoNatives.de)
Back in 1976, I was a grade-schooler obsessed with motorsport, though following it was no easy feat. News traveled slowly, and live broadcasts were almost nonexistent. Most of my updates came from magazines days after the races ended. Compare that to today, when we can stream races live from anywhere in the world—it’s a different planet.
Welcome to Long Beach
The Grand Prix of Long Beach, held on the streets of this California port city, was brand-new to the F1 calendar in 1976. Local promoter Chris Pook had big ambitions, aiming to position Long Beach as the “American Monaco.” The race didn’t disappoint, with its waterfront setting, iconic ships like the RMS Queen Mary, and a track layout that delivered drama.
What surprises many is that F1 cars were slower than their Formula 5000 counterparts, which had raced here six months earlier. Mario Andretti, in a Lola-Chevrolet, lapped faster in the F5000 race than Ferrari’s Clay Regazzoni managed during F1 qualifying. Still, the event was a spectacle, securing its place in F1 lore.
Fittipaldi’s Bold Venture
This particular photo captures Emerson Fittipaldi parking his Copersucar FD04 during practice. The two-time world champion had taken a leap of faith, racing for his own team alongside his brother Wilson. Sponsored by the Brazilian company Copersucar, their operation was a scrappy underdog in a sport already dominated by rising corporate power.
The 1970s were a transformative time for Formula 1. Bernie Ecclestone was beginning to reshape the business, teams were gaining influence, and the calendar was expanding. Long Beach, with its Hollywood backdrop and electric atmosphere, symbolized the sport’s growing global ambitions.
Looking at this image now, I’m reminded of how far Formula 1 has come—not just in speed and technology, but in its reach and cultural impact. Long Beach 1976 was more than a race; it was a milestone on the road to modern F1.
The title-picture was generated by ChatGBT