Ten victories across nine Formula One seasons define the racing career of Jody Scheckter, who remains the only African driver to secure a World Drivers' Championship. Rising from his birthplace of East London, South Africa, to the global circuits of the 1970s, he balanced a reputation for initial aggression with a career-defining technical maturity.
Early Career and McLaren Debut
Moving to the United Kingdom in 1971, Scheckter quickly progressed through motor racing ranks. His Formula One introduction occurred at the 1972 United States Grand Prix with McLaren. During his early years, including a 1973 campaign using the number zero on his McLaren M23, his driving style earned criticism for causing major accidents. The death of his future teammate François Cevert at Watkins Glen in 1973 served as a pivotal turning point, prompting Scheckter to shift his approach toward a more calculated driving style.
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Scheckter secured a full-time seat with Tyrrell for the 1974 season. He achieved his maiden victory at the Swedish Grand Prix, ultimately finishing third in the championship standings. In 1975, he won his home race in South Africa. The following year, he drove the unconventional six-wheeled Tyrrell P34, becoming the only driver in history to win a Grand Prix in a six-wheeled vehicle.
Championship Season with Ferrari
After a stint with Wolf, where he claimed a victory at the Monaco Grand Prix and finished as the championship runner-up in 1977, Scheckter joined Ferrari in 1979. Partnering with Gilles Villeneuve, he secured three race wins during his debut season with the Italian team. His victory at the Italian Grand Prix clinched the World Drivers' Championship title. He retired from professional racing in 1980 after Ferrari struggled with the 312T5 chassis.
Transition to Business
Following his retirement from the track, Scheckter transitioned into broadcasting roles for CBS, ABC, and ITV. In 1984, he established a weapons simulation company, Firearms Training Systems, which generated over £100 million in revenue by the early 1990s. Later, he moved into the agricultural sector, where he became the owner of Laverstoke Park Farm in England.
Fast facts
- Born: 29 January 1950, East London, South Africa
- Formula One World Champion: 1979
- Total F1 Grand Prix Wins: 10
- Racing Teams: McLaren, Tyrrell, Wolf, Ferrari
- Education: Selborne College, Vincent Primary School, Port Rex Technical High School
- Business Ventures: Firearms Training Systems, Laverstoke Park Farm
Questions readers ask
Was Jody Scheckter the first African Formula One champion?
Yes, he remains the only African driver to win a Formula One Grand Prix or the World Drivers' Championship.
What unique record does Scheckter hold regarding car design?
He is the only driver in history to win a Grand Prix driving a six-wheeled car, the Tyrrell P34.
Achievements
- Discipline: auto racing
