Jim Clark's death in a Formula Two race at Hockenheim, followed by the losses of Mike Spence, Ludovoco Scarfiotti and Jo Schlesser made it one of motor racing's blackest seasons. Graham Hill rises to the challenge and wins the World Championship for Lotus, but Jackie Stewart, having joined forces with Ken Tyrrell, assumes Clark's mantle as the fastest driver in the world.

With Ford Cosworth engines now supplied to the Tyrrell, McLaren and Lotus marques, only Ferrari break their dominance with a win in the French Grand Prix courtesy of the brilliant newcomer Jackie Ickx. Jo Siffert provides Rob Walker with an emotional win in the British Grand Prix.

The face of Grand Prix racing changes, with Lotus sporting a tobacco livery ushering in the era of corporate sponsorship. Colin Chapman also introduces high aerofoil wings over the rear wheels, and other teams are forced to follow suit.

A spectacular newcomer was Matra with their ear-splitting V12 engine, but sadly Honda, Eagle and Cooper all called time on Formula 1.