United States Grand Prix 1978 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Carlos Reutemann claimed an emotional victory at the United States Grand Prix at Watkins Glen, winning for Ferrari in the race immediately following Ronnie Peterson's death at Monza. The Argentine drove with his characteristic smooth intelligence on the challenging upstate New York circuit, though the triumph was overshadowed by the sport's collective grief. Reutemann's fourth victory of the season demonstrated Ferrari's continued competitiveness, though championship aspirations had long since faded.

Alan Jones delivered a breakthrough performance with second place for Williams, signaling the British team's emergence as a future force in Formula 1. The Australian's aggressive driving style and Williams's improving FW06 suggested bigger things to come. Jody Scheckter claimed third for Wolf, maintaining his consistent points-scoring form in what would be his final season with the team before moving to Ferrari for 1979.

Mario Andretti finished a subdued fourth, his championship already secured but his heart heavy with grief over Peterson's death. The American went through the motions at Watkins Glen, his mind far from racing as he processed the loss of his teammate and friend. The somber atmosphere at Watkins Glen reflected Formula 1's ongoing struggle with safety - Peterson's death, coming just two years after his own horrific accident, reminded everyone that the sport remained desperately dangerous despite incremental safety improvements. Reutemann's professional victory provided little joy in a weekend dominated by mourning and reflection on the sport's deadly toll.