Reunion with the Lotus 72 - Emerson Fittipaldi moved to tears
Two-time Formula 1 world champion Emerson Fittipaldi (born 12.12.1946 in Sao Paulo) had his heart's desire fulfilled at the 2010 Brazilian Grand Prix.
After 38 years, the 64-year-old Brazilian was once again allowed to drive two demo laps in his 1972 world champion car on his home circuit of Interlagos in Sao Paulo. After a brisk drive and to great applause from the Brazilian fans, he emerged with tears in his eyes from what is probably one of the most beautiful Formula 1 cars in history.
The Lotus 72 was an ingenious and pioneering design by Colin Chapman and Maurice Philippe. This car is considered one of the most successful Formula 1 monoposti in history. Despite the sad start in 1970, when Austrian Jochen Rindt was killed in an accident in Monza on September 5, the fast wedge remained competitive until 1975 and won three Grand Prix races in 1974 with Ronnie Peterson at the wheel.
Our gallery shows the best moments of the nostalgic drive.
