Christmas in Formula 1: A Festive Past We Might Not See Again
The 2024 Formula 1 season is drawing to a close, with the festive season taking center stage. It’s been 20 days since the curtain dropped on the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking the end of another thrilling campaign.
But did you know that Christmas wasn’t always synonymous with relaxtion in the world of Formula 1? Back in the early 1960s, the South African Grand Prix used to be held right around the holidays.
Festive F1: A Short-Lived Tradition
In 1962, the South African Grand Prix took place on December 29th. The following year, it was even earlier, on December 28th. These were the final races of the season, with only nine and ten races contested respectively.
This meant the Prince George Circuit in South Africa played host to the championship finale on both occasions, adding extra weight and excitement to these festive showpieces. Imagine the spectacle of a Grand Prix battle under the South African summer sun just days before Christmas!
Of course, such a schedule is almost unthinkable today. By 1964, the Formula 1 calendar had shifted. The final race moved to Mexico City and was held in late October, marking the end of Formula 1’s holiday-season dalliance.
Would You Be In Favor?
It’s unlikely we’ll see a Christmas Grand Prix anytime soon. But, would you be interested in seeing F1 action during the festive season? Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #WeAreWilliams.
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