1968 F1 Season

The 1968 Formula One season, marking the 22nd season of FIA Formula One motor racing, was a pivotal year in the sport’s history. The season, which ran from 1 January to 3 November, included the 19th World Championship, won by Graham Hill with Lotus. Lotus, after losing its exclusive rights to the DFV engine, nevertheless dominated the season, with McLaren and a new entrant, Ken Tyrrell’s Matra team, also making their marks. This season was significant for three major innovations in Formula One: the introduction of unrestricted sponsorship, the debut of wings on cars for improved aerodynamics, and the adoption of full-face helmets for drivers. Tragically, 1968 was also a year marked by significant losses, with the deaths of five Grand Prix drivers, including Jim Clark and Jo Schlesser, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in the sport. It was the final year where races were run on tracks with almost no safety modifications, leading to increased concerns and subsequent changes in safety protocols.