This is not a historic French Grand Prix. Nor the Vantaa of Castellette. This is just one round of the Spanish F4 Championship and the third round of the European Cup. However, this Sunday at noon, when the forty-year-old Formula 1 car powered by a crown-like head raced in Verrerie, Sainte-Baume and Signes ), time truly stood still. man? Emerson Fittipaldi, first Brazilian to reach the roof of the world, Power 2 champion (1972, 1974). machine? The family team’s Copersucar F6A, “Emo” drove this Copersucar F6A in the last six grands of the 1979 season.
“This is a unique model as the only other model was converted into a show car””, confides Sébastien Chardonnet, the initiator of this reunion. If he stops chasing time, the track driver turned rally racer will expand under another hat His trajectory. “Around Monaco, I built a group of passionate investors who bought old cars and commissioned us to restore them at AB Sport Auto. We bought and rebuilt these old cars across the Channel, putting our energy into the gear of vintage F1. From A to Z, repainted with a template according to the rules of the art, it works perfectly, as my friend Jonathan Cochet’s third place finish at the Monaco Historic Grand Prix circuit two months ago proved to be Emerson’s. Signed, I got in touch with him this winter and he was excited to be here following his racing son and I suggested he get it in hand..
Meet a living legend with racing in his blood. Still and forever. 77 years old.
Emerson, when Sébastien Chardonnet offered you the booster shot of Castellet, did you hesitate a little, a lot, or not at all?
I didn’t even think regarding it. I am very happy. Because this is a historic car for us, for my brother (Wilson Fittipaldi, the eldest of the siblings who died on February 23, 2024, was also an F1 driver – who competed in 35 grands prix – and founder of the Copersucar team in 1975. editor). It’s indescribable how I feel regarding getting back behind the wheel following 45 years. special. Very strong.
How was the trip? Does this car still handle like it used to?
The first thing you’ll notice once the Cosworth V8 starts up is the noise. A real racing engine. excellent! As we hit the trail, many images emerged. Most of all, I remember the tremendous work that went into building these cars domestically. Even though we have support from big companies like Embraer (Brazilian aircraft manufacturer), we spent several sleepless nights with my brother. So much effort… To answer your question, I found the car very easy to drive. Just right. She hasn’t changed, she’s still the same. Sebastian and his team do a great job. well done!
Will the same be true at Circuit Paul Ricard half a century later?
Yes, the route has barely changed. Nothing is different except for the chicane that bisects the Mistral Straight. We used to swallow it all in one go. Circuit Paul-Ricard has set the standard for safety since its emergence in the early 1970s. This is still true today. I hope he will have the Emperor of France once more soon.
What are your memories of the first French Grand Prix at Le Castellet on July 4, 1971?
I think this is my only podium here (Lotus was third, behind the Tyrrells of Jackie Stewart and François Cevert. I just remember Jackie and Francois walking very fast. That day is untouchable.
You won races and the top title with Lotus in ’72, with McLaren in ’74…what’s missing then to do the same with your own team?
money. time. Our last F1, the F8, was launched in 1980 and was a success. Because we recruited capable engineers: Harvey Postlethwaite, and Adrian Newey, who began his illustrious career with us. My teammate at the time was Keke Rosberg. Promising young talents. In two years he will also wear the crown (1982, driving Williams). We are on an upward slope. But the adventure ended when our main sponsors (Copersucar and then Skol) stopped investing. Without steadfast companions, there is no redemption.
Today, Emerson Junior is following in your footsteps. What is he dreaming regarding?
We’re not going to lie: apparently, he dreams of F1! “Emo” Junior is young. He is 17 years old. At the moment, the most important thing is learning. There are no skipped steps. Eurocup-3 is a good school. He’s already on the podium at the Red Bull Ring. I’m excited to see his progress.
There are no more Brazilian drivers in Formula 1.
Because there are only 20 places! Climbing the last level is not easy. It’s been a long time since Brazil has been on the grand prix podium. (since 2015 Felipe Massa). Even in the paddock. However, the country does not lack hope. Some people are currently standing out in F3 and F2. We’re waiting to see someone break through to the top level. Maybe he will become an “Emo” boy in a few years. who knows?
