Jody Scheckter
The South African who became Formula One World Champion with Ferrari in 1979.
- Nationality
- South African
- Birthplace
- East London, South Africa
- Disciplines
- Formula 1
Jody Scheckter grew up in East London, South Africa, close to the Prince George Circuit where the South African Grand Prix began. He competed in Formula 1 from 1972 to 1980.
Rise to Formula 1
After racing in South Africa and then in British junior categories, Scheckter made his Formula 1 debut with McLaren at the 1972 United States Grand Prix.
Race winner
With Tyrrell he won races including the 1976 Swedish Grand Prix in the six-wheeled Tyrrell P34. In 1977 he won on his debut for the new Wolf team in Argentina.
The 1979 title
Scheckter joined Ferrari for 1979, partnering Gilles Villeneuve. He secured the Drivers' Championship by winning the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
Legacy
He retired after the 1980 season with 10 Grand Prix wins. Records compiled by Formula 1 and reference sources list him as the only driver from Africa to have won a World Championship Grand Prix or the Drivers' title. After racing he built businesses, including an organic farm in England.
Sources
Last updated Oct 9, 2026 · Facts verified as of Oct 9, 2026
