United States Grand Prix West 1976 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Clay Regazzoni scored a popular victory at Long Beach in Formula 1's inaugural street race on American soil, the Swiss veteran demonstrating his street-fighting abilities on the challenging California circuit. Regazzoni's masterful performance on the tight, bumpy streets showcased his adaptability and racecraft, leading home teammate Niki Lauda in a perfect Ferrari one-two finish. The result extended Ferrari's stranglehold on the championship and demonstrated that both drivers could win races when circumstances aligned.

The Long Beach circuit, created from public roads around the Queen Mary ocean liner, provided a refreshing change from traditional permanent circuits and proved immediately popular with drivers and fans alike. The tight, technical layout rewarded precision and bravery, with concrete walls providing no margin for error. Regazzoni's experience and smooth driving style proved perfectly suited to the street circuit's unique demands, allowing him to control the pace throughout.

Patrick Depailler finished third for Tyrrell, continuing his consistent points-scoring form that kept him in contention for a top-five championship finish. The Frenchman's performance on the demanding street circuit highlighted his growing reputation as one of Formula 1's most complete drivers. Ferrari's dominance at Long Beach further extended Lauda's championship lead, though controversy and tragedy still lay ahead that would transform the season.