Scheckter brings it home for Ferrari and himself at Monza

©TheCahierArchive

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©TheCahierArchive

On this day in 1979, Jody Scheckter delivered the world title to himself and to Ferrari by winning the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

After a brief spell at the front of the turbo-powered Renault of René Arnoux, Scheckter took over the proceedings on lap 13 and never looked back, leading across the finish line at the end of the 50-lap race Ferrari teammate Gilles Villeneuve to complete the most festive of days at the races for the Tifosi.

The local crowd did well to indulge in the celebrations as they would be made to wait a massive 21 years before exalting another Ferrari driver for winning the title, a privilege that would be achieved by Michael Schumacher in 2000.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.