Shark squadron

The 1961 Monaco Grand Prix was held on 14 May 1961. It was the first Formula One World Championship race under the new 1.5 litre engine regulations. Ferrari fielded the elegant 156, designed by Carlo Chiti, soon to be called ‘Sharknose’ for its distinctive front end, for Americans Richie Ginther and Phil Hill and for German aristocrat Wolfgang von Trips (picture above).

Nevertheless, the 100 lap race was dominated by Brit Stirling Moss in his Lotus-Climax, followed by the three Ferraris of Ginther (2nd), Hill (3rd) and von Trips in 4th position.

Phil Hill won the 1961 World Championship of Drivers and Ferrari secured the 1961 International Cup for F1 Manufacturers, both triumphs achieved with the 156.

Unfortunately, Ferrari factory policy saw all the remaining 156’s scrapped by the end of 1963 season and use some components for its next generation of single-seaters. Nevertheless, such a 156 is exhibited in the “Galleria Ferrari” at Maranello, probably an excellent replica.