ROUND 9

South African Grand Prix

Graham Hill Triumphs in Thrilling 1962 South African Grand Prix Showdown

Prince George Circuit (East London) - Sat. Dec 29, 1962
Position Driver Car Time/Gap
1st Graham Hill BRM P57 02:08:03.300
2nd Bruce McLaren Cooper-Climax T60 +1 lap
3rd Tony Maggs Cooper-Climax T60 +1 lap

Fastest lap / Driver: 01:29.100 - Graham Hill

Average speed: 161.1 km/h - 100.1 mph

No. of laps / Distance: 82 laps - 322.4 k - 200.3 m

1st, 2nd and 3rd

Under the blazing South African sun, Graham Hill sealed his 1962 World Championship with a commanding victory at East London. Calm and confident, Hill led from start to finish, managing his BRM perfectly through the heat and pressure of a season finale. It was a flawless drive, showing why he was the year’s strongest and most consistent competitor.

Bruce McLaren pushed hard in second, keeping Hill honest but never quite able to close the gap. His performance was smooth and calculated, proving once again his place among the sport’s elite. Behind them, local hero Tony Maggs delighted the crowd with a strong third-place finish. Maggs drove with passion and care, securing his first podium on home soil, much to the joy of South African fans.

The race was fast, with little drama, as the front-runners controlled the pace and avoided trouble. Several retirements, including Dan Gurney and Jim Clark, meant the title race came down to Hill’s control. By the final lap, Hill’s victory was certain, a fitting end to a brilliant season.

Emotions, Elations and Sensations

Graham Hill, now World Champion, stood tall with a mix of pride and joy, the cheers of the crowd echoing his triumph. McLaren, ever gracious, shared a firm handshake and a smile. Maggs, overwhelmed and proud, celebrated his breakthrough in front of his people. Champagne sparkled in the African light, marking a season’s end full of achievement and promise.

Championship Standings

1st
pts
2nd
pts
3rd
pts

Continue the Story

You've read one race from the 1970s Formula 1 World Championship.

Continue through every Grand Prix, every podium battle and every championship story in the complete decade book.

View the 1960s Book Buy the 1960s Book