Original subtitles

The track is still dangerously wet, but following the driver's beating... Three

minutes to go.

Everybody off the grid now.

Twenty-five drivers start every season in Formula One.

And each year, two of us die.

What kind of person does a job like this?

Not normal man, for sure.

Rebels.

Lunatics.

Dreamers.

People who are desperate to make a mark, and are prepared to die trying.

My name is Niki Lauda.

And racing people know me for two things.

The first is my rivalry with him.

What about Hunt?

Has he changed?

No, he's going on weights. I don't know why it became such a big thing.

We were just drivers, busting each other's balls.

To me, this is perfectly normal.

But other people saw it differently.

That whatever it was between us went deeper.

The

other

thing I'm remembered for is what happened on 1st August 1976.

When I was chasing him.

Like an asshole.

Oh, I think the racetrack telephoned ahead that I was coming. Hunt. James

Hunt.

What's the matter? No one ever seen a spot of blood before.

Are you all right?

Absolutely fine.

We all thought you'd been in an accident.

I have.

If you call a friendly disagreement with another driver an accident.

What did you disagree about?

It's none of your business.

Sorry.

His wife.

That's going to need a couple of stitches. It's a nasty cut.

It's a nasty blow.

Done with a bloody crowbar.

Why? What did you do?

Nothing. Only what she asked me to do.

Which was?

I'd be happy to show you if you like.

I have a theory why women like racing drivers.

It's not because they respect what we do, driving round and round in circles.

Mostly they think that's pathetic.

They're probably right.

It's our closeness to death.

You see, the closer you are to death, the more alive you feel.

The more alive you are, they can see that in you. They feel that in you.

My name is James Hunt.

My father is a stockbroker, my sister is a barrister, and my brother is an

accountant.

And I, well, I do this.

It's a wonderful way to live, and it's the only way to drive.

As if each day was your last.

I've never been to a Grand Prix before.

Well, you still haven't.

This is Formula 3.

What's that?

That's a lower division where idiots like me mess about in the hope of being

talent spotted to race in Formula 1. You look disappointed.

No. Ah, you only slept with me because you thought I was famous.

That's not true.

Don't worry. There will be one day.

Morning, everyone.

This is Nursey.

Gemma. Now, see, this is Bubbles Horsley, team manager. How do you do?

Bubbles? Yeah.

Doc Postlethwaite, our designer. How do you do?

Alexander Lord Hesketh, the team's owner.

How do you do?

Fine, thanks.

Well done, superstar.

That's the car?

Yep, that's her.

Motor's 59.

1,000 cc, Cosworth MAE engine.

She's no beauty, but...

Goes like the clappers.

Nothing to be worried about. Does it before every race. Good sign, actually.

Means he's stoked.

All right, superstar?

Never better, Patron. Have a gargle with this. Thank you.

Quick toke of this.

Who's that?

He's new.

Some German.

Austrian. He's been here since 5 a.m., walking the track.

You might actually have to concentrate today, Jones.

You'll need these.

Okay, start her off.

Ah, what music!

They could never have imagined it, those pioneers who invented the automobile,

that it would possess us like this in our imaginations, our dreams.

You know, see, men love women.

And even more than that, men love women.

ah still

in

the lead but nikki lauda is right on his tail

hunt and louder are proving to be in a class of their own they're leaving the

pack far behind louder

takes a look down the

inside and he sold him a dummy

now that is through he's in the lead

pop will be determined to make up for that mistake

Louder, Slipstream! Louder's not leaving any gap!

Melotus goes for the inside!

It's an aggressive move from Hunt!

There's every reason to expect sharp words in the pits.

Better luck next time.

Hey, asshole.

It was my line.

I had that corner.

What do you mean, the one that you spun out of and finished facing the other

way? I think that corner had you.

That move was thought of suicide.

What if I hadn't braked? We'd have crashed.

We didn't, did we?

Thanks to your impeccable survival instincts.

Fuck you.

What's your name?

James Simon Wallace Hunt.

Remember it, my little Jerry friend.

Yes, it's very simple. Hunt. It rhymes with hunt.

A word that happens to describe you perfectly.

Who is that?

I have no idea. He looks like a rat, doesn't he?

In my hometown Vienna, my family is famous for one thing.

Business.

My grandfather was a businessman.

My father, too.

So when they heard I wanted to raise cars for a living, they had a few things

to say.

So if my family wasn't going to help me, I decided to risk everything and take

out the loan myself.

I found a Formula One team with an okay car and an owner who had run out of

money and was willing to accept my terms.

And so, ladies and gentlemen, I'm delighted to say that the winner of the

Guild of Motoring Writers Award Driver of the Year is James Hunt.

Thank you so much.

My parents always wanted me to be a doctor or a stockbroker or something.

They gave me the first class education, but that all went terribly wrong and I

ended up with you lot.

Thank you. I need it more than you do.

I mean, I have a hot head, an inability to tolerate discipline.

Yes, very true.

I fall out with people left and right.

The only creatures I've ever really loved or have treated honorably are

budgerigars.

So in any normal area of life, I'd be or I am a total liability.

The only thing I've got going for me is I'm quick in a car. So thank you for

this and for acknowledging that. I'm going to give it to my father and tell

him to put it on the mantelpiece and imagine it's a first-class degree in

medicine.

Well done superstar another season like that, then I'll move you up to the big

time. Come on You don't think I'm ready now you are I'm not I've got to find you

a car first.

Well, you know, I'm in Chop-chop don't wait too long. You don't want him to do

what louder just did. Why what did he do? Got himself a drive with BRM. Well,

how the hell did he do that? Nobody it's never won a bloody thing Apparently took

out a loan and bought his way in with two million Austrian shillings

Wait, I'll let you. I'll call you back.

Mr.

Stanley. Good morning. Good morning. Good morning. Clay!

Let me introduce you to our number one driver, Clay Regazzoni.

How are you?

Good.

Pleasure. And these are your mechanics, reporting exclusively to you,

as per contract.

Pleasure. You want to see the car?

Sure.

Hello?

There she is.

P160.

Same as Rigazzoni's?

Identical in every detail.

How much does she weigh?

600 kilos.

That's crazy.

Why so heavy?

It's a V12 engine.

That lump weighs 190K on its own.

Okay.

What horsepower are you getting?

490? No, no, 450.

Well, that's not enough.

Needs to be 500.

And the engine needs to be 20 kilo lighter. We already tried.

Tried what? Everything.

Replaced the entire exhaust system. Barely made a difference.

Using magnesium parts?

Now the engine block.

Any mounting or fixing plates, strip it out also.

When you've done that, you have to look at the aerodynamics.

Front and rear wing.

Okay, thank you. Good night.

What was Regan's only time?

1.53.

Okay, now put him in my car, and you go around two seconds faster.

Well, that's impossible.

No chance.

Put Regasson in the car. See what happens.

I don't understand. Why am I supposed to do this? I don't know, Clay. I just want

you to take it for a spin.

Glass, please.

All right.

What did you do to the car?

That's information I will share with you under certain conditions only.

Go on.

Guaranteed place in the team?

And a paid contract on equal terms with Regazzoni for two years.

Are you crazy?

McClay's a senior figure in Formula One.

You're just a rookie.

But the only reason we took you on is because you're pegged.

Well, as of now, if you want me to stay, we rip up the contract. I don't pay you

a cent.

That's outrageous!

Was he quicker in my car?

He was, wasn't he?

Did he go two seconds faster?

2.3.

So, have a think, work out your priorities, and get back to me.

Panicky.

I know what you're going to say, that it's none of my business.

What?

If it's the track manager you're taking on your date tonight.

It's none of your business.

Okay, but if you want my advice, I'd let this one go.

I'm not questioning your taste. She's a great girl, but... Agnes' last

boyfriend... Was a British Formula Two driver who has a reputation for two

things for being a little crazy on the track and For going all night and all

day and all night again in bed is a good driver, but but an immortal fuck

apparently I don't know about you, but that's not a night. I'd like to follow

But but if that doesn't bother you

What's his name the driver

Hunt, James Hunt.

You see, you share information, and I share information.

That's what teammates are for.

Where the hell are we going?

I promise it'll be worth it.

Just keep them closed.

Wait for it.

Wait for it.

There. What do you say?

She's Formula One.

Yes, she is superstar.

Your brother and I got together with the bean counters.

And since the economics of F1 are not so significantly different to the economics

of Formula Two...

Well, we thought if we were going to be losing money, we might as well be doing

it on the big roulette table in Formula One. You fat little inbred beauty.

And to credit where it's due, you've got the idea from Nicky. Who?

Louder. Bought his way in rather than mess about in the lower divisions. I

thought, bloody hell, he's right.

No sponsorship, superstar.

I hope you approve.

No vulgar logos for cigarettes or condoms.

Just plain white with the flags.

Oh, and racing overalls, which read, Sex, Breakfast of

Champions.

So when do we start?

As soon as we're ready. Ready?

I've been waiting for this my whole life.

When the season started, people wondered whether Lord Hesketh and his team of

upper-class enthusiasts were bringing glamour to the racing community, or just

comedy. Certainly, it was the first time anyone had seen a butler serving oysters

and caviar in the pits.

But they have made quite an impact.

Six in France, fourth in Britain, and third in Holland. All drivers on the

track, hot flags are out.

Severe crash at the S's.

And reports are reaching me that there has been a serious accident in

qualifying. The identity of the driver we don't currently have at the moment,

but as you can tell from all the activity going on behind me towards the

track, it is clearly a grave incident indeed.

We will, of course, have more information for you as and when we get

it, but it is the sight and sound of Formula One nobody likes to see.

Drivers of top stature we've lost just in the past four seasons have included

Pierce Courage, Johan Rindt, Joe Seifert, Roger

Williamson, and today at Watkins Glen.

Terrible.

We should cancel the race. Why?

You made a mistake.

I did to the corner too fast. It's his fault.

Is that right?

It's obvious.

Look at the tire marks.

So says the nobody who had to pay for his own drive.

How's that working out for you, by the way?

Fine.

How is it at the back?

Not planning on being there for long.

Heading into the Grand Hotel hairpin, second gear, turn in hard, looking for

late apex, gentle with the path.

Heading into 48, second gear, flip the apex, light brake, stay in second,

looking for a good exit.

Heading through the tunnel, gradual right, up through the third, fourth,

fifth... Is Alexander around?

Uh, yes, he was.

He went back to the house to take a call. He'll be back shortly.

He only wanted to show me his pride and joy.

Rhymes with boy, if you ask me.

And toy.

God, it's so flimsy.

For something that costs so much.

There's no comfort, no protection.

Nothing. No, it's just a little coffin, really.

Surrounded by high-octane fuel in here.

Being driven around 170 miles per hour.

To all intents and purposes, this thing's a bomb on wheels.

You're James, aren't you?

Yes.

You fit the description.

Is that right?

Susie, friend of Alex's.

Yeah, I know exactly.

What was the description?

Mostly positive in terms of appearance, negative only in terms of character.

I've been told to avoid you.

By whom?

Alexander.

He says you're a bad boy.

Alexander doesn't know what he's talking about. I was.

I'm not anymore.

The new me is very professional.

Early to bed, early to rise, or very dull.

But according to the team, it's the best way to keep beating the goose stepper.

Is that what you were doing when I came in? Yes, visualization techniques,

memorizing the circuit. In this case, Monica, which is up next.

And personally, I've always been a great believer in getting there on the day,

putting my foot down and playing chicken with everyone else.

But they don't want me doing that anymore. They want my body like a temple

and my mind like a monk.

And what about your soul, your heart?

Well, they've got ideas about that too.

They want me to stop messing around, settle down, get married with the next

nice girl I meet. They think it would be good for me.

What do you think?

Sounds fucking awful.

But since they're right about most things, they're probably right about

that too.

You don't fancy getting married, do you?

What's going on with him? Nothing, nothing.

Didn't want to ruin your day.

It's, uh, it's the kraut.

What about him?

He's just been signed by Ferrari.

Are you kidding me?

Jesus, how did that happen?

Did he buy his way in there, too?

Well, the old man took Regazzoni back, and he insisted on it, apparently.

He says that Nick is a genius setting up the cars.

It's terrible.

Drives like a pig.

Oh, you can't say that.

Why not?

It's a Ferrari.

It's a shitbox.

It understeers like crazy and the weight distribution is a disaster.

It's amazing, all these facilities and you make a piece of crap like this.

Ferrari family.

Our good friend, Claire Gazzone. You are family and friend to the Commendatore as

long as you win.

The minute you don't, ciao, ciao.

Totally understand.

It's business.

I will do the same.

But it isn't just business, is it?

What we do, it's passion, love, which is why we are prepared to risk our lives

for it.

If not me, if I had more talent and could earn better money with something

else, I would.

You know you will make money here.

You haven't yet.

Not yet, but I will.

If you can, I can.

You know, are you ever not an asshole?

Why am I an asshole, huh? Well... You know, by now I'm both quicker than you

and better at setting up the car.

You can't deal with it, so you're the asshole.

Screw you.

I brought you along today because you seem like a lonely kind of guy.

I thought if I introduce you to some nice people, that could rub off on you.

Forget it.

Make your own friends.

Come on, Clay.

I'm sorry.

Are you leaving?

Yes.

Can you give me a lift to the nearest town?

Anywhere with a train station?

Sure.

Plan shows half an hour's drive.

Get in.

What are you doing?

You hear that noise when you accelerate?

No. Your fan belt is loose.

My what?

When you brake, your foot goes all the way down.

Which means there's air in the system.

Anything else?

No.

Apart from the rear brakes are worn out.

The front right tire is a bit soft, which explains why you're weaving so

much. How can you tell?

My ass.

Sorry? God gave me an okay mind.

But the really good ass which can feel everything in a car.

You don't know what you're talking about. This car's fine.

Just had a service a week ago.

Not a good one.

It is a very good one. Very expensive.

This car's as good as new.

Relax.

We're not in a hurry, are you?

No. As long as I'm back in Maranello on Monday morning.

Kurt Jürgens, the host.

He is, or better said, he was my friend.

You know, when an older man acts like one, that's actually quite attractive.

But when he acts like a scared child... I must have been crazy.

Come on, let me do that.

Otherwise we'll be here tomorrow.

After all, we're in Italy.

Yes.

Yes.

Thank you. Thank you.

It's a piece of shit.

It's a dog shit.

But if you drive it, you make my life any better.

Will

someone

please tell me what's going on?

Who are you? Should I know you? What? You don't know?

He's a Niki Lauda, Formula One driver, and he just assigned you with a Ferrari.

Him? That's impossible.

Why? Why, you know, Formula One drivers.

They have long hair, are sexy, their shirts are open to hear.

Thank you.

Yes? Anyway, look at the way he's driving, like an old man.

There's no need to drive fast. It just increases the percentage of risk.

We're not in a hurry. I'm not being paid right now with zero incentive for

reward.

Why would I drive fast?

Because I'm asking you to.

This is an incredible battle between Niki Lauda in the red Ferrari and James

Hunt in the white Heskin.

This is not the challenge of Niki Lauda. Lauda attacking Hunt. Lauda gets through

on the inside, goes wide at the exit.

Hunt is passed again.

Once more, Lauda tries to sneak up the inside.

They're absolutely side by side, wheel to wheel, so evenly matched.

Fantastic battle between these two great drivers and Hunt.

He's now ahead once more.

But Lado's coming back again now. Lado, once more, sneaks up the inside.

And again he runs wide. Again the Husky changes those back in front. Just one

second.

Can we go? Yeah? Okay.

We're in the closing laps of this race here at Watkins Glen. They come down the

hill.

And that's got a problem.

pulls across to the left. Lauda goes ahead on his own.

A sad end to a wonderful battle.

Hunt pushing off the marshal.

The

chequered flag is

waiting for Lauda and for Ferrari.

The title Going to Niki Lauda who wins the race who wins the world championship

Congratulations Thank you well in it It's gone though with a car like that.

The rest of us never really stood a chance, did we?

Maybe the fake the car should go there something to do with me.

Come on Nikki. You're in a Ferrari.

I'm in a Hesketh In equal terms, the way it was in Formula 3, I'd beat you and

you'd know it. Never.

You might win one race, maybe two, because you're aggressive. But in the

long run, over the course of a season, no chance.

Right. Why is that?

Because to be a champion, it takes more than just being quick. It's the whole

picture.

You're just a charger and a party guy.

That's why everybody likes you.

Try saying that and tell me you're not jealous.

Why would I be jealous?

Think about it.

All that affection, all those smiles.

It's a sign of their disrespect.

They don't fear you.

But as compared to me... Yes, compared to you, whom no one likes. Right? Not

even his own teammates.

Right. Because I'm a serious guy.

I go to bed early, I look after myself, look after my car. Yes, you're very well

behaved. I go to work, kick ass, and then after the race I go home. Instead

of going to bars, you talk all this bullshit with all these assholes.

Assholes?

You should go home often, too.

I heard you got married.

Yes, I did.

So where is she, this mysterious wife?

In New York, working.

Oh.

You know, I've never seen her with her once.

No.

Well, maybe that's because you're always at home.

On your own, looking after yourself, being a good little boy.

Take a drink on me, James.

Thank you, Nicky. I might just have two.

Right, Bubbles.

Whatever it takes to beat that prick next year, just say it.

Your word is my command. There are no lengths to which I will not go.

I mean it.

Where is everybody?

What's the matter?

Do you know what the date is today?

Yes, it's November the 14th. Why? Do you have any idea of the significance of

that date?

I don't know. Time to start killing pheasants?

Actually, it's the deadline for securing sponsorship for the forthcoming Formula

One season.

Yes. Which elapsed at midnight last night and we didn't attract any.

So, we are looking for sponsorship now. And like you said, condoms and

cigarettes, vulgar, right?

Right.

Except we are, or were.

I've made something of a miscalculation.

The economics, Formula One, realities thereof.

Turns out... Not like the lower divisions at all.

What do you say?

I'm saying it's over, superstar.

The banks have stepped in, started laying everyone off.

Probably have to sell this place.

I need a drive, Pete. I need you to find me a drive.

I mean, what about Lotus?

You don't want to know.

Actually, I do.

Okay.

They felt your reputation preceded you.

What does that mean?

It's my other line. Look, I'll get back to you.

Peter Hunt.

Don't worry, something will turn up.

Doubt that will help in the meantime.

Why don't we go away at the weekend?

Skiing.

Before I go back to New York.

Talk to me, James. Don't make a stranger of me.

You know...

Susie, only a stranger would invite me skiing when they know I haven't got a

fucking drive.

I can't watch this.

What were you hoping for, anyway?

A well-adjusted knight in shining armor? No danger of that.

Now, let me give you some advice.

I'm all ears.

Don't go to men who are willing to kill themselves driving in circles looking

for normality.

I never expected normality. God knows I walked into this with my eyes open. I

just hoped I'd married someone who was half as impressive on the inside as he

is on the outside.

Well, at least there's something behind the facade.

James... Fuck off to New York, dear.

There must be a moisturiser or an eyeshadow somewhere that needs your

vapid mush to flog it.

Hello? Hi, James. It's Peter.

Something's up at McLaren.

What have you heard?

Oh, nothing. Why?

I heard Emerson's off.

He's dumped them, isn't he?

Jesus, get me in there, Pete.

Say anything.

Just get me in that room.

I've come straight to the point.

Our, uh... Esteemed lead driver.

Bitty fucking Paulie. Has ditched us for another team at the last minute. Cop a

fucking sucker.

And we need a replacement.

ASA fucking P.

Fortunately, a few hands have already gone up. Good people.

Jackie X.

I'm quicker than Jackie.

But he's consistent.

Dependable. A grown-up.

Right, and will he go for that gap where no one else will?

Will he put his life on the line the day that it really matters?

Sponsors like him.

What do you want, a driver or a brush salesman? We want to be successful. Yes,

so do I. But that means beating Nicky Lauda, not being a show pony for

sponsors. I heard about this thing with Nicky.

Everyone has.

You really think you can beat him? I'd beat him in a McLaren. It's the only car

out there as quick as the Ferrari.

Which is why I'm here, begging.

Look, I'll do whatever you ask. I'll put on a tie. I'll smile for sponsors, say

the right things.

I can beat this guy, trust me.

Just give me the drive.

Yeah, yeah, he can be a loose cannon.

And yeah, he will drive you all mad. But in terms of raw talent and right stuff,

there is no better driver in the world.

He's the real thing, Teddy.

It's what we all came into this for.

Nine days out of ten, you'll be pulling your hair out. But on that tenth day,

James will be unbeatable. And that is the day you will wish you had him in

your car.

You will never win the championship with Jackie Yooks.

You just might with James.

Welcome to Sao Paulo, Brazil and the Interlagos Circuit for the first race in

the 1976 Formula One season, where the main news is that James Hunt has

qualified fastest, beating Niki Lauda's Ferrari to pole position by just two

hundredths of a second.

New car.

I noticed.

Pole position.

I noticed that too.

Level playing field now, my ratty little friend. Yeah.

Let's see where we are after lap one.

Let's see where we are in five braces time Hunt has the pit lane pole position

which should give him the best chance about dragging loud as Ferrari If ever

there was a doubt about whether louder had a serious challenger to this season

hunt and his McLaren have certainly given us the answer

Here in South Africa, James Hunt is determined to make amends after that

disastrous retirement in Brazil.

But it's Lago who takes the flag here in Kyalami.

James Hunt comes home second to confirm his championship challenge at last and

score his first points of the season.

That wind you can feel is me breathing down your neck.

Next time I'll have you.

We'll see you in Spain.

James Hunt finally takes his first victory of the season here in Spain

after a brilliant try.

It was only a matter of time.

It's too wide.

Disqualified. What?

You're disqualified.

How can we be disqualified?

Just

make

it narrower.

I don't care how. New rear suspension, new wishbones.

I want to make sure this thing is legal.

No doubt. Well, then we'd better move the all-coolers back to the old

position. The all-coolers back? The wing brackets need to be changed too. What

the fuck do you think we're doing?

And

we've had

disqualified from his Spain win. His championship year is not going well.

And now it's all gone wrong here at Monaco.

This engine is smoking.

Smoke pouring from the engine of that McLaren. And James Hunt is out.

Dave, can you tell us what happened?

Sure, it's magic. We've taken a great car, a great piece of engineering, and

overnight turned it into a big, huge, stinking turn.

The hell of you John, the car's evil.

Fucking undriveable. James, look, if there's a problem with the car, we'll

find it. You should be appealing this. We are appealing this. You're killing us

out there.

Oh, go and get your dick wet. You're a wanker.

You're a fucking wanker.

But this was a good race for you. No, Nicky.

It's good for everyone that the quickest car happens to be a legal car. James,

you're 50 points behind Lauda in the championship.

You've had another retirement day.

What's going wrong?

Oh, it's dirty politics and dirty tricks. That's what's going wrong.

So, as we approach the halfway point in this year's Formula One season, Ferrari

and Niki Lauda seem clearly on top, and James Hunt and McLaren are struggling.

So, five races in.

How's it going so far?

It's fine.

Just got a little problem with an Austrian rat and his team of Italian

cheats who've destroyed my car.

What are you talking about?

Talking about the race in Spain that I won.

Yeah, in a car which is not legal. Five-eighths, seven-inch too wide. You

know that doesn't have the slightest effect on speed.

But you complained and your team of lawyers leaned on the authorities. Now

we've had to rebuild the car and it's become a monster. At least it's a legal

monster. So you've had to resort to cheating.

Driving an illegal car and call me the cheat? It's pathetic.

Rules are rules. Yes. And rats?

Ah, rats.

Thank you. Thank you.

Do you really think it upsets me, James?

Calling me a rat because I look like one?

I don't mind it.

Rats are ugly, sure, and nobody likes them, but they're very intelligent, and

they have a strong survival instinct.

Wonderful.

No wonder she left him.

Has anyone seen Susie?

She was supposed to be here today.

We, uh, didn't want to tell you before the race.

Is that from him?

Yeah.

So when did all this start?

That weekend I went skiing.

Why have you come here, James?

I've come to get you back.

You don't want me back.

You never wanted to be married in the first place. Yes, I did.

Oh, come on, James.

You did it because you hoped it might change you, settle you down, help with

the racing.

No, I didn't. And who knows, if it had been just the drinking, or the dope, or

the infidelity, or the moods, it might even have worked.

But when it's all of them... Yes, I know, I'm terrible. No, you're not

terrible.

You're just who you are at this point in your life.

God help anyone who wants more.

And Richard Burton.

Will he be able to give you more?

You know, he has quite the bad boy reputation himself.

What's important is how it feels to me.

And it feels like he adores me.

I mean, lover, which makes her happy.

And Mr. Burton has found a way of feeling young again, which makes him

happy. Let's hope his pockets are deep. They'll need to be.

And I've found a way to be single and have an ex-wife without it costing me a

penny. It's just got to go down as the biggest win of my career.

I have a flight to catch.

um

We haven't seen this sort of intensity from James Hunt all season long. Reports

have been coming out of the McLaren camp all week that their car is now fully

legal and faster than ever.

Never mind the bloody width, we're still quick.

Hunt has really closed the gap on Lyda as they head into Druids.

Vicky Lyda is under real pressure from James Hunt as they go up the hill into

Druid's Corner.

James, at the moment you've got a terrific edge over the rest of the

field. How have you achieved this advantage?

Big balls.

Following an inquiry into the disqualification of driver James Hunt

from the Spanish Grand Prix, it has been decided to overturn the disqualification

and to restore his victory and reinstate his points.

James, a few weeks ago, you were out of the running for the season completely,

and now you're right back in it. What's changed?

Well, it's a combination of factors, not all of which I'm prepared to discuss

here. But justice being done, really disqualification in Spain helps, and

having my car back at its best again.

Pigs should be able to fly.

Would you excuse me now? I'll be brought somewhere else.

I have

to

warn you.

These are not my strengths.

Buying flowers, doing business.

Probably I'll even forget your birthday.

If I do that now, it's only with you.

My God, a poet.

Congratulations! No chance!

What's wrong with you?

You know, luck is an enemy.

It spoils you.

It makes you doubt.

It gives you something you could lose.

If luck is your enemy, then it's too late anyway.

Then you've already lost.

Nikki, an autograph, please.

Yes.

With date, please.

With date?

Why? Well, you never know.

It could be the last one.

Welcome to the Nürburgring, the most dangerous circuit on the season

calendar. In Formula One, it is known as the graveyard.

The weather conditions are far from ideal, and latest reports indicate there

is no relief in sight.

Gentlemen.

Well, gentlemen, please be quiet.

Thank you.

Niki Lauda. Thank you.

I called this meeting.

Because as all you drivers know, the Nürburgring is the most stupid,

barbaric, outdated and dangerous track in the world.

We've all seen the rain that has been falling today.

Now those of you with experience know the ring needs perfect conditions to be

even remotely acceptable in terms of risk.

Now today with the rain, it's anything but perfect.

So I called this meeting to take a vote to cancel the race.

No change to the situation as far as points is concerned. The race would

simply be cancelled.

This is bullshit. If the race is cancelled, none of us get our race fees.

That's true.

You leave without your fee, but you might leave with your life.

It also means that you would effectively win the championship.

So I can see why this suits you just fine.

Why? There would be no points for me either.

No, but there would be one race less where I or anyone else here could catch

you. James is right. This is just tactics.

Maybe he's just frightened.

We just all said this?

Yes, of course I'm frightened.

And so are you.

I accept every time I get in my car, there's 20% chance I could die.

And I can live with it.

But not 1% more.

And today with the rain, the risk is more.

I suppose that all depends on how good you are in the ring.

I have the track record here.

I'm the only person in history to do the ring in under seven minutes. So

actually, it's to my advantage to race here today.

Because I'm quicker than all of you.

Fine.

Then let's race.

Gentlemen,

please. Why are we here, Nicky? Come on.

Well, all those in favor of canceling the race.

All those in favor of racing.

Gentlemen, the race is on.

You know, Nicky, every now and then it helps if people like you.

It places the track is still dangerously wet.

But following a driver's meeting, a decision has finally been taken. The

race is going ahead.

Jochen's going on slicks. You want to change?

Is Nicky going to change?

No. Then we stay on weds, too.

Mickey,

okay? I'm good.

All right, fire up.

The season's fight for the Formula One World Championship has so far been the

story of two men. Thus far, it's been going pretty much the way of Niki Lauda.

When James Hunt has qualified fastest here, he is on pole position for the

German Grand Prix with Niki Lauda alongside in the blood red Ferrari.

It's a long race. If the track starts to dry out, the wet weather...

I can't believe he does this. Nicky Limer and James Hunt side by side on

the...

Very aggressive on Hunt there, forcing the McLaren onto the grass.

Lada has the lead at the moment. Lada leads it to the first corner. Hunt is in

second place.

That's storming past Hunt. He made the right choice to go with the dry weather

tyres.

Mass, pass it louder now. Jochen Mass in the number 12 McLaren takes the lead.

Jochen Mass, the clear leader with everybody else making the decision to

change tyres after just one lap of this race.

Come on, let's go.

See?

I told you to go on slicks. You should have taken my advice.

Fuck off. Where's Nicky?

Behind you you make the same mistake

the tire changing frenzy has caused a huge reshuffling of the pack urging

his mechanics

This race has gone wrong for him so far. His championship rival James Hunt is a

long way up the road.

No, they're passing car after car. He's just going past barrier addresses.

Notice that.

After a series of pretty bad accidents in the second round of the race, the

German Grand Prix was now started.

the driver's name in the accident.

We are slowly getting information about the accident. However, Niki Laude was

involved in the accident and will now be flown with heavy burns from a helicopter

to the Mannheim hospital.

Am Krankenbett in der Intensivstation, wo sich 6 Fachärzte und 34

Krankenschwestern um ihn kümmern.

However, his condition is much worse than expected.

which swept down Big Thompson Canyon in Colorado was the worst since records

began.

In Formula One today, victory celebrations were muted after a horrific

accident involving world champion Niki Lauda.

Due to safety concerns before the race, the Austrian had said he would not take

part, but in the end he did.

He was making up for lost time when he went off the track, puncturing the

Ferrari's fuel tank.

Brett Langer was unable to avoid the flaming wreck, but was unhurt and joined

with the other drivers to rescue Lauda.

who was taken to Mannheim Hospital with severe burns.

The incident reminding us again of the dangers of Formula One.

Niki Lauda was trapped for almost a minute in a searing inferno of 800 plus

degrees.

He told a priest to piss off. I'm still alive.

You can come in now.

Oh!

Sister, give me your nasal swab. Thank you.

Mr.

Lauder, we have to vacuum the lungs.

I have to warn you. It's not very pleasant.

uh

um

uh oh

That should be enough for today.

Are you sure?

Your lungs would still be sensitive because of the treatment.

Niki, stop.

Please stop.

Malin, I don't know what you're talking about.

What's going on?

Jesus, it's Nicky. What about him?

He's here.

What? He's racing.

Nicky. Bad, bad, huh?

No.

In hospital, I asked them straight, no bullshit.

How bad my appearance would be.

You said with time it would be fine.

But it won't.

I can tell, seeing your reaction.

I will spend the rest of my life with a face that frightens people.

You know, Nicky, I tried to write you a letter at the time to apologize.

There was a driver's meeting in Germany. Before the race, I swayed the room.

Yes, you did.

That race should never have gone ahead.

No, it shouldn't.

So in many ways, I feel responsible for what happened.

You were.

But trust me, watching you win those races while I was fighting for my life,

you were equally responsible for getting me back in the car.

How are you feeling, Nicky?

Fine.

Nicky, can you confirm to us exactly which procedures you've had and the

expectations for your recovery? So, I had a skin graft operation, but I put

half my right thigh in my face.

Now, it doesn't look too good, but one unexpected advantage is it's impossible

to perspire through a skin graft, so sweat will never run into my eyes again,

which is good for a driver.

When they heard about your condition, Ferrari immediately hired a replacement

driver, Carlos Reutemann.

Yep.

Before even reaching the hospital.

Is Reutemann driving today, too?

Yes.

I'm keen to make an impression.

So let's see where Mr.

Reutemann finishes and where I finish today.

James Hunt and McLaren have caught up a lot while you were away.

Yes.

Is there a question now, or are you just trying to piss me off?

You still think you can win?

Yes, of course.

I have the better car, and possibly I'm the better driver.

But he's a clever guy and he's used his time well while I was lying half dead in

hospital doing some points.

And what did your wife say when she saw your face?

She said, sweetie, you don't need a face to drive, you just need the right foot.

I'm being serious.

Do you really think your marriage can survive?

With the way you look now.

And I'm being serious, too.

Fuck you.

Race conference over.

See you. See you later.

Cheers. Are you all right? Good, yeah. Listen, I think I've got something for

you on that last question about Nicky. Have you heard about that? Did you see?

James!

Please.

Now go home to your wife and ask her how you look.

So, Niki Lauda, just 42 days after his near-fatal accident at Nurburgring, will

race here today at Monza against all medical advice and no doubt in

incredible pain.

Nikki, it's time.

Okay.

Please clear the grid.

The returning Vicky Louder seems overwhelmed, being overtaken by car

after car.

Louder's offline!

That's flying onto the grass.

He wrestles it back onto the track, but that was a bad moment for Nicky.

Nicky Lama's the reigning world champion, and maybe in his current

state, he's a danger out there to himself and to the rest of the field.

That stock has collided with Mario Andretti's Lotus.

Nicky is moxed in! Let him know!

Nicky Louder is actually making a move!

He's on Brad Biller's trail!

He pulls out of the...

is starting to find the form that early in this race we believed he'd lost.

Lauda's now lapping faster than Reutemann and closing the gap ahead.

Lauda closing on Carlos Reutemann. The man called in to be his replacement in

the Ferrari team.

Clara! Smokey!

Stationery by the side of the road!

This is bad news for Hunt's Championship Oats!

It's Ronnie Peterson who comes home the winner here at Monza! But all eyes are

on the man who finishes a brilliant park!

What a race, what a man, what a season With a fourth place finish and three

priceless points, it means that Niki Lauda is a major step closer to

retaining the world championship.

So the long, grueling, and incredibly dramatic season comes down to this final

race in Japan in the shadow of Mount Fuji.

Niki Lauda goes into this deciding race at Fuji just three points ahead of James

Hunt, Hunt knowing he must beat the Austrian fair and square to take the

title.

James, do you think you can cope with the pressure?

Well, I've never really understood what that means.

I love my job. I love competing. I love racing.

Maybe you should ask Nicky. He's the world champion. He's got everything to

lose. Mr. Lauda, are you feeling pressure?

Do I look like I'm feeling pressure?

I'm world champion and on the verge to become world champion again.

Hunt now has the opportunity to win, but it's not so easy to become a champion.

You have to really believe it to make it possible.

James, is there anything you'd like to add?

If Nikki is being tricky and getting a kicky out of playing mind games, then

fine, I'm flattered. But the fact is, momentum is with me. I've never felt

better.

And I fully expect the next press conference we'll have will be with me as

world champion.

Intermittent heavy rain has been forecast here at Fuji today, along with

strong winds and occasional fog rolling in from the mountain.

And so with today's Japanese Grand Prix to come, Lauda's lead a mere three

points. What a way to finish the season.

Hunt or Lauda? Well, the final chapter will unfold when we bring you extended

coverage of this... I've got to cancel the race. It's lethal out there.

The race is going ahead.

Television rights have been sold all around the world. The showdown between

you and Nicky is all anyone wants to see. With heavy rain continuing to fall

here at Fuji... A decision has finally been made. The 1976 Japanese Grand Prix

will go ahead.

All drivers, your cars please.

All right. All right. Hold still.

What the hell are you doing?

Let the condensation out. And also let the water in. Not if you're leading.

Trust me, this race is all about the start.

Need a hand here? Yeah, hold it, Teddy.

Okay,

start

the bastard.

Good luck, kid.

Good luck, Nate!

Electric tension here at Fuji.

80,000 draggled race vans and the racing grudge match of the decade.

And there's Mario Andretti in pole position, James Hunt alongside him.

On row two of the grid, there is Niki Lauda. And on row three of the grid...

Jody Schechter from South Africa in the six-wheeled Tyrrell behind him the rest

of the 25

there's

the

flag and finally the Japanese Grand Prix is underway

In these conditions, it must be almost impossible to drive a 450 horsepower

car.

Andretti who has the lead. But Hunt is attacking.

Hunt going round the outside of Andretti. The key line are following him

through. Hunt leads into the first right hander.

Hunt comes through to complete his first lap leading the field. At least he has

clear vision in front of him.

Lickylider behind him, eating his spray!

Lider is slowing!

nikki lada is bringing the ferrari number one into the pit some sort of

problem we can't imagine what so early in the race

what's wrong with the car

what's wrong with the car nikki what's wrong with the car nothing

that's perfect what are you doing

I'm stopping. His mechanics are asking what the problem is. But wait, Niki

Lauda's getting out of the car. This is sensational.

The reigning world champion, Niki Lauda, is out of this race.

It's too dangerous.

You want me to say there's a problem with the car for the media?

No.

Tell them the truth.

Now, what is happening?

And they're talking to the team manager.

Lauda explaining something.

With Lauda out, James Hunt knows he has to finish this race in third place or

higher to be world champion.

But the job's not done yet for James Hunt. In these dreadful conditions, he

still has to go the distance.

Fifteen laps to go here at Fuji. James Hunt or Nicky Lauda? This extraordinary

season is not over yet. In this treacherous final round, can James Hunt

hang on?

And the scoreboard tells a story. Lap 58.

Hunt in the lead.

Oh, God, his tires, they're blistering.

Graham Biller-Murray goes behind now.

Closing on him all the time now.

And he's trying to drive inside James Hunt.

Hunt cuts across the orange march nose.

Hunt's not having that at all. And he's spinning, but he hasn't. He missed Hunt.

That almost took James Hunt out of the race and out of the world championship.

Now we find Mario Andretti closing on James Hunt.

Mario, Andretti's going past Hunt. Hunt is slowing. James Hunt seems to have a

problem.

Despite these wet conditions, these wet weather tyres do wear extremely fast.

Hunt's tyres, they've gone.

Hunt nursing his car back to the pit stop.

That back marker's going past, Hunt!

Look at that left front tyre, right front tyre, sorry.

No straight on it at all. And the other one is flat.

Let's go, let's go!

When did you break your gear lever?

Nine or ten laps ago.

We need to lift it. Alistair, we need to lift it. Come on!

Let's go!

Regattoni's Ferrari and Jacques Lafitte in the Ligier have gone ahead.

Come on! Hurry!

You did it!

You're going to be world champion!

Not yet. A few laps ago, James Hunt was looking like champion elect. Now it

looks as though it's all gone wrong.

James! Come on! Listen! What?

Just go easy out there.

What are you saying?

I'm saying look after yourself.

We want you back in one piece.

You're too far back.

There's too many drivers in front of you.

This all's next year.

So that's it? It's over?

There.

Okay.

There. Fuck it.

James Hunt rejoins the race in sixth position. There are four laps left to

go. Surely no way back for the Brit now.

Concentrate, superstar.

Just brings it back under control.

Sliding the McLaren on the very edge there.

On step 23, twitching this way and that under braking. And he almost loses it

right there. On the tail of Jacques Lafitte in the blue Ligier.

On step 2, change.

He's inches away from the pit wall. He's inches away from the lissier.

What are you doing?

James Hunt has made up another place, but it's not enough. And this race is

running out.

And Watson has spun. Watson has spun.

Hutt manages to weave his way between that back marker and the station

Repenski. He's catching records only.

But in these conditions, it's one thing to catch up. It's quite another to

overtake.

He's alongside clear records only. This could be the world championship.

He's got him!

Hunt crosses the line. Now, he needed to finish third to score enough points to

be world champion.

But in the confusion here... We're being told that he may have finished fifth.

Our lap charts show Hunt in third place. Well, if the scoreboard's right, it

means he's just missed out on the championship, crushing defeat for Hunt

after such a heroic drive.

I can see the race stewards conferring, examining the official lap charts.

We're just going to have to wait for their verdict here.

Just get you out of there, buddy. I'm sorry, Teddy. I'm sorry. I thought I

could make up the ground. Sorry? What are you talking about? You did it. Did

what? You crazy bastard. You came third. You got the points.

You're champion of the world. James Hunt is now officially confirmed as finishing

third here in Japan and that means he is champion of the world.

Our new world champion James Hunt by just one single point.

Tell us, James, what are you going to do now? I shall be getting drunk.

Yes, thank you. Wonderful.

Guns. And our special guest, Formula One champion James Hunt.

There's no better motor oil than Haberlein.

I want to go and I don't have to hijack it either.

As long as I pay for it.

You

lot

go ahead, I won't be a minute.

Nikki.

Good to see you.

I heard you were spending more and more time in one of these.

Do you fly?

No. I don't think they'd insure me.

You should try.

It's good for discipline.

You have to stay within the rules, stick to regulations, suppress the ego. It

helps with the racing.

Now I was thinking you were about to wax lyrical about the romantic flight.

No. That's all bullshit.

So what brings you here?

A friend's wedding.

Or at least I think it was a wedding. Might have been a birthday or something.

It's all a bit of a blur.

How about you? Have you been at Furano?

Pre-season testing.

You're relentless.

Thank you.

I'm not sure that was meant as a compliment.

When do you stop testing?

Next week?

Oh, are you nuts?

I didn't just win the biggest thing of my life so I could get right back to

work.

Why?

You have to.

To prove to all the people who will always say you just won it because...

Because of what?

Because of your accident?

You sneaky.

Is that other people or is that you?

I won.

Okay, on the all-important day when it came down to it, we raced on equal

terms, equally good cars.

And I put my life on the line, and I saw it through.

And you called that winning?

Yes. The risks were totally unacceptable.

You were prepared to die.

To me, that's losing. Yes, I was.

I admit it. I was prepared to die to beat you that day.

And that's the effect you have on me.

You'd pushed me that far, and it felt great.

Oh, hell, isn't that what we're in this for?

To stare death in the face and to cheat it?

Come on, there's nobility in that. It's like being knights.

You English, you're such assholes.

You know my position.

20% risk. No, no, no, Nicky, don't bring the percentages into this. Don't be a

pro. The minute you do that, you kill what's good about this. You kill the

sport.

I've got to go.

Careful of this thing.

James.

You know, in hospital, the toughest part of my treatment was the vacuum.

Pumping the shit out of my lungs.

It was hell.

And while doing it, I was watching television.

You winning all my points.

Your points?

That bastard Hunter would say. I hate that guy.

And then one day the doctor came and said, Mr. Lauder, may I offer a piece of

advice? Stop thinking of it as a curse to have been given an enemy in life. It

can be a blessing, too.

A wise man gets more from his enemies than a fool from his friends.

And you know what?

He was right.

Now look at us.

We were both a pair of kids when we met.

Hot-headed jerks in Formula 3.

Disowned by our families.

Headed nowhere.

And now we're both champions of the world.

It's not bad, huh?

No, it's not bad.

So don't let me down now.

I need you busting my balls.

Get back to work.

I will, Mickey, I will.

But I intend to enjoy myself first.

Some of life needs to be for pleasure.

What's the point of having a million cups and medals and planes if you don't

have any fun?

And how's that winning?

I'll see you on race day, champ.

You will, champ.

Hey, you look good, Nicky.

The only guy to have his face burnt off and it be an improvement.

Of course he didn't listen to me.

For James, one world title was enough.

He had proved what he needed to prove.

to himself, and anyone who doubted him.

And two years later, he retired.

When I saw him next in London, seven years later, me as champion again, him

as broadcaster, he was barefoot, on a bicycle, with a flat tire, still living

each day like his last.

When I heard he died aged 45 of a heart attack, I wasn't surprised.

I was just sad.

People always think of us as rivals.

But he was among the very few I liked.

And even fewer that I respected.

He remains the only person I envied.