Emerson and the Canadian armed forces

Emerson Fittipaldi (McLaren M23-Cosworth) on his way to victory at the 1974 Canadian Grand Prix, race at Mosport Park (pictured above). Note the billboard with a promotion, in English and French, for the Canadian Armed Forces.

The 1974 Canadian Grand Prix was round 14 of 15 in the World Championship. Niki Lauda was on his way to victory when, on lap 67, he ran over debris and his Ferrari 312B3 spun and was forced to retire. Emerson Fittipaldi seized the opportunity and led to the finish ahead of his main championship rival, Regazzoni. It was his 12th F1 victory.

This result meant that with one race remaining, three drivers still had a chance to be crowned. Fittipaldi and Regazzoni with 52 points each and Scheckter with an outside chance with 45 units. The Drivers’ Championship would be decided a week later, at the US Grand Prix held at Watkins Glen.