Emerson Fittipaldi enjoyed his most successful season. Driving the black-and-gold liveried 'John Player Special' - (otherwise a Lotus 72D), the Brazilian became the sport's youngest-ever World Champion at just 25 years 8 months and 29 days, notching up five wins in the process.

Other winners during the season were Stewart, Hulme, Beltoise and Ickx taking victories for Tyrrell, McLaren, BRM and Ferrari respectively.

Bernie Ecclestone re-appeared on the Grand Prix scene having acquired the Brabham Formula 1 team from Ron Tauranac. The cars were, naturally, immaculately turned out in an all-white livery and a new talent by the name of Carlos Reutemann rapidly began to establish his reputation.

Firestone and Goodyear introduce super soft qualifying tyres as the competition between the manufacturers heightened.

Graham Hill completed a unique hat-trick after winning the Le Mans 24-hour race. The Londoner being the only driver to win the triple crown of the World Championship, the Indianapolis 500 and the Sarthe Sports Car classic. His joy was tempered however, when close friend Jo Bonnier lost his life after an accident during the race.