a billion-dollar industry
The 1970s were the years of the Watergate scandal, Womens’ rights, Earth Day, and the era of the hippies. An oil crisis again resulted in car-free Sundays in 1973 and 1974. Suriname became independent, seatbelts became mandatory in 1975, and the start of the multi-billion dollar industry that is F1 today.
Formula 1 is becoming commercial
Bernie Ecclestone began rearranging commercial rights in the 1970s. Circuits from then on no longer approached individual teams but could get all teams as 1 package. All or nothing! In addition, in 1975 drivers were required to wear uniforms that met certain fire safety requirements.
Heroes of the 1970s
Niki Lauda is for many not only the favorite from the 1970s, but from all of F1 history. Lauda stood at the top of the podium no less than 25 times in his Formula One career, 17 of which were in the 1970s . Besides Lauda, Emerson Fittipaldi, Jackie Steward and James Hunt are Heroes in the 70’s.
In the 1970s, Zandvoort is overshadowed by a number of tragic accidents. Piers Courage and Roger Williams unfortunately do not survive their crashes at Zandvoort. In 1974 the circuit is heavily modified in terms of fire safety. After which there is racing again at Zandvoort. James Hunt won the ’75 and ’76 editions and Lauda won the ’77 race unchallenged.
Cars in the 70's
The 70’s had several beloved cars. For example, the 70’s started with the Ford Torino, but cars like the Chevrolet Vega, Monte Carlo and Monza were popular and, of course, the Ford Mustang. In the Netherlands, the Peugeot 504 became popular but the Lelijke Eend and Beetle cannot be forgotten either!
THIS IS WHAT THE 1970S SOUNDED LIKE
In the 1970s, Rock music became mega popular. One of the most beloved songs of the time is Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen released in 1975. Furthermore, the 70s sounded like Electric Light Orchestra, Dolly Parton, Billy Joel, Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC and ABBA.
