Learning from the Master

For the 1970 Formula One season, Tyrrell were asked by Matra, with whom they had claimed the 1969 title, to use the Matra V12 engine and found it inferior to the DFV Cosworth.

Ken Tyrrell had little alternative but to buy the March 701 chassis as an interim solution while developing his own car in secret.

Rising star François Cevert (picture), having shined in F3 and F2 joined the team from round 5, after Johnny Servoz-Gavin, another up and coming frenchman, decided suddenly to end his racing career.

It was a steep learning curve for the likable Parisian who managed to score only one point at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.

Nevertheless, a real friendship between him and Jackie Stewart was born that year, and the Scot became his mentor for the next 3 seasons, preparing and coaching him to ultimately become a more complete driver by the end of 1973.

Sadly, François Cevert was killed in practice for the US Grand Prix in Oct 1973, and Jackie Stewart retired from motor racing.