Spanish Grand Prix 1975 - Race Schedule and Countdown

The Spanish Grand Prix at Montjuïc descended into controversy and chaos when a multiple-car accident triggered by a rear wing failure prompted half the field to withdraw over safety concerns. Jochen Mass inherited victory after the race was stopped early, claiming his maiden Formula 1 win in circumstances that left a bitter taste. The German driver received only half points for the abbreviated 29-lap race, but a victory remained a victory, and Mass had driven superbly in treacherous conditions.

The race began in disaster when Rolf Stommelen's rear wing failed catastrophically, sending his Embassy Hill-Lola into the barriers and then over them, killing four spectators and seriously injuring the German driver. The accident exposed dangerous inadequacies in the Montjuïc circuit's safety standards and prompted an immediate driver boycott discussion. Eventually, after lengthy delays and safety inspections, the race restarted with a depleted field, many drivers choosing to withdraw in protest.

Jacky Ickx finished second for Lotus ahead of the ever-consistent Carlos Reutemann in third for Brabham. The half-points awarded for the abbreviated distance meant Mass's championship boost was limited, but he had claimed his place in Formula 1 history with a maiden victory. The tragedy at Montjuïc accelerated discussions about circuit safety standards and marked the last time Formula 1 would race on the dangerous Barcelona street circuit, the sport recognizing that inadequate barriers and safety provisions could no longer be tolerated.