United States Grand Prix 1962 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Jim Clark delivered a dominant victory at Watkins Glen, finally seeing his Lotus-Climax hold together to claim a win that showcased his sublime talent even as the championship slipped from his grasp. The Scottish star's mastery of the challenging upstate New York circuit was complete, as he controlled the race from start to finish with a display of smooth, effortless speed that left rivals in awe. Clark's performance demonstrated what might have been had Lotus achieved better reliability throughout the season - his three victories came with such commanding margins that they highlighted his superiority over the field. The Watkins Glen triumph provided some consolation for a frustrating season, though Clark knew he had lost the championship not through lack of speed but through mechanical fragility beyond his control.

Graham Hill secured second place to clinch his first World Championship, the BRM driver's consistent points-scoring throughout the season proving decisive against Clark's greater natural speed. Hill's title triumph was richly deserved, rewarding not just his performances in 1962 but years of perseverance and development that had finally brought BRM to championship-winning status. Bruce McLaren completed the podium for Cooper, capping another solid season with a consistent points finish. The Watkins Glen result perfectly encapsulated the season's narrative: Clark was the fastest driver, but Hill's reliability and consistency had made the difference. As the paddock celebrated Hill's championship, there was also acknowledgment that Clark's time would come, and when it did, he would be virtually unstoppable.