STORY OF THE DAY: Scheckter’s First Victory in Red

On 13 May 1979, Jody Scheckter won the Belgian Grand Prix at Zolder in Ferrari 312 T4 number 11. It was the South African’s first victory for Ferrari and an important step in the campaign that would ultimately make him World Champion.

Jacques Laffite started from pole for Ligier, but the contest changed through retirements and shifting positions. Scheckter emerged in front and brought the Ferrari home ahead of Laffite, while Didier Pironi secured his first Formula One podium in third for Tyrrell. The result demonstrated Scheckter’s ability to turn opportunity into maximum points.

The 312 T4 was Ferrari’s first full ground-effect Formula One car. Its broad flat-12 engine limited the underbody tunnels compared with narrower-engined rivals, yet Mauro Forghieri produced a robust chassis with effective aerodynamics, strong traction and dependable power from the three-litre engine.

Born in East London, South Africa, Scheckter arrived at Ferrari in 1979 as an experienced Grand Prix winner after spells with McLaren, Tyrrell and Wolf. Once known for an aggressive style, he had developed into a calculated championship contender. Zolder was the first Ferrari victory of the season that confirmed his new partnership’s potential.