Watson’s legendary charge: From 22nd to victory at Long Beach

40

On this day in 1983, John Watson delivered one of the most remarkable victories in Formula 1 history, winning the US GP West at Long Beach for McLaren after starting from a distant 22nd on the grid.

Watson and teammate Niki Lauda had struggled in qualifying, with McLaren unable to find the right tyre and chassis combination.

However, shortly before the race, Watson opted for the same tyre compound he had used in Detroit the previous year—a decision that had helped him win from 17th on the grid.

"After a dismal practice, Michelin were as perplexed as we were," Watson later recalled. "So I decided to take a gamble and try the tyre compound … and it worked."

It was a truly stunning performance from a determined driver at the peak of his abilities, fully confident in the package beneath him.

For good measure, Lauda, who had started even further back in 23rd, secured second place despite battling leg cramps in the closing stages.

©TheCahierArchive

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.