50 YEARS OF FORMULA 5000 TO BE CELEBRATED AT AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL

Autosport International, the world’s biggest pre-season motor show. Playing host to the 50-year anniversary celebrations of Formula 5000.

The series, whose name is derived from the cars’ engine capacity, will be honoured by the Historic Sports Car Club (HSCC) within the show’s dedicated historic area.

The first race was won by Peter Gethin in a McLaren M10. At Oulton Park when the championship came to the UK in 1969. The legendary Brit went on to win the Championship both in 1969 and 1970. Also, then winning the Tasman Championship in 1974 driving a Chevron B24. In its heyday Formula 5000 spanned from America, Canada, New Zealand and Australia to the UK.

The HSCC will display six cars at Autosport International. Including an ex-Mike Hailwood 1971 Surtees TS8. As well as the 1970 Mclaren M10B raced by Peter Gethin. A number of drivers from the period will be at the show in January. Where fans can get up close to the legendary chassis on display. Plus, get an insight in to the work the HSCC, the premier organiser of historic motor racing in the UK, do.

Six-car display at Autosport International comprising of the following:

  • 1969 Lola T142 ex-Ernst Kroll
  • 1970 Mclaren M10B ex-Peter Gethin
  • 1971 Surtees TS8 ex-Mike Hailwood
  • 1972 McRae GM1
  • 1974 Gurney Eagle FA74
  • 1975 Lola T400

Furthermore, the list of famous racers to have graced a Formula 5000 grid include: Jody Scheckter, Mario Andretti, Rene Arnoux, Patrick Tambay, Alan Jones and Derek Bell.

● Historic Sports Car Club (HSCC) to celebrate 50 years of Formula 5000

Grahame White, incumbent CEO of the HSCC, said:

“Formula 5000 played host to so many iconic names that we recognise to this day. A championship which came to the UK in 1969. Has thrilled fans with some extraordinary works of engineering and raw power. We cannot wait to celebrate 50 years of this wonderful series at Autosport International in January.”

Autosport International Events Director, Kate Woodley, said:

“Autosport International captures all elements of motorsport from present day to the past. Every year the HSCC delivers with a truly unique celebration feature. 2019’s show will be no different as we celebrate 50 years of Formula 5000 with these six racing cars with a wonderful history. Make sure you see some of the cars raced by some of the world’s most popular names at our show.”

Autosport International is part of Motorsport Network’s UK title, Autosport. One of the world’s leading print and online motorsport publishers.

Motorsport Network is the world’s largest independent automotive and motorsport-related digital platform. Connecting millions of people who love motorsport and cars. Notably, the network also creates key industry events including the annual Autosport Awards and the Motorsport Business Leaders’ Forum.

Finally, make sure you head over to www.autosportinternational.com to get your tickets.