Wilson and the Copersucar

Mechanics are busy around Wilson Fittipaldi’s Copersucar FD01-Ford in the paddock, while the Brazilian, brother of two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi, watches them before the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix, run at the Montjuic circuit in Barcelona (photo above).

The Copersucar FD01 was the first Formula 1 car of the Brazilian Fittipaldi Automotive team, entered in 1975. Designed by Ricardo Divila for Wilson Fittipaldi, it was distinguished by its innovative aerodynamics (low drag, rear-mounted radiators). Powered by the well-known Ford Cosworth DFV engine, it had a difficult first season.

Wilson Fittipaldi failed to score a single point in the 1975 Formula 1 season, the Brazilian achieving as his best result, a modest tenth place at the finish of the US Grand Prix, run at Watkins Glen. Photo below: Wilson Fittipaldi at the wheel of FD01 in Argentina, season opener.