Designer: Team led by Gordon Coppuck

Team: McLaren Racing

Years Active: 1973–1978

Wheelbase: 101 in (2,570 mm)

Track Width: 62 in (1,575 mm)

Weight: Approx. 1,270 lbs (575 kg)

Power: Approx. 480–490 bhp @ 10,500–10,800 rpm

James Hunt: Formula 1's Fearless Champion and Racing Icon

James Hunt was one of the most charismatic, fearless, and unconventional figures ever to compete in Formula One. Born in Surrey, England, in 1947, Hunt became famous not only for his extraordinary speed on the racetrack, but also for the rebellious personality and rock-star lifestyle that made him a global sporting icon during the 1970s.

Nicknamed “Hunt the Shunt” early in his career because of his aggressive driving style and frequent accidents, Hunt quickly developed a reputation for being spectacularly fast and completely fearless behind the wheel. His rise through the junior racing categories was rapid, and by 1973 he had reached Formula One with the small but ambitious Hesketh Racing team. Unlike the highly polished factory teams of the era, Hesketh embodied glamour, humour, and anti-establishment spirit – qualities that perfectly matched Hunt’s personality.

Despite operating with a modest budget, Hunt stunned the Formula One world by taking Hesketh’s first and only Grand Prix victory at the 1975 Dutch Grand Prix. His performances caught the attention of McLaren Racing, who signed him for the 1976 season following Emerson Fittipaldi’s departure.

The 1976 season would define Hunt’s career forever. Driving the legendary McLaren M23, Hunt became embroiled in one of the greatest rivalries in motorsport history against Ferrari driver Niki Lauda. The contrasting personalities of the two men fascinated fans worldwide: Lauda was analytical and disciplined, while Hunt was instinctive, emotional, and flamboyant.

Their championship battle became even more dramatic after Lauda suffered a near-fatal crash at the Nürburgring in Germany. Hunt, meanwhile, drove with relentless determination, winning six victories and taking eight pole positions throughout the season. The title fight came down to the final race in Japan, held in torrential rain at Fuji Speedway. While Lauda withdrew because of the dangerous conditions, Hunt battled through the chaos to finish third and secure the 1976 Formula One World Championship by a single point.

Away from racing, Hunt became almost as famous for his lifestyle as his driving. With his long blond hair, outspoken humour, and party-loving image, he became one of the defining sporting celebrities of the decade. Yet beneath the public persona was an immensely talented driver respected by rivals throughout the paddock.

After retiring from Formula One in 1979, Hunt reinvented himself as a television commentator for the BBC Sport, where his sharp insight, honesty, and wit made him hugely popular with viewers. He remained a beloved figure in British motorsport until his death in 1993 at the age of 45.

Today, James Hunt is remembered as much more than a world champion. He represents a unique era of Formula One — one filled with danger, glamour, personality, and raw human courage.

Fuji in the Rain

The 1976 Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji Speedway remains one of the most dramatic and emotional races in Formula 1 history. Held on 24 October 1976, the race brought the fierce championship battle between James Hunt and Niki Lauda to a breathtaking conclusion.

Driving the fourth iteration of McLaren's M23, the M23D, Hunt arrived in Japan trailing Ferrari driver Lauda by just three points after an extraordinary comeback during the second half of the season. Torrential rain and dangerous conditions turned Fuji Speedway into a treacherous circuit, with spray severely reducing visibility and standing water covering parts of the track.

At the end of the opening lap, reigning champion Lauda made the courageous decision to withdraw from the race, believing the conditions were too dangerous to continue. Hunt, however, pressed on despite the chaos around him, knowing the World Championship was within reach.

The race became a nerve-shredding test of endurance and concentration. Hunt initially led comfortably, but tyre wear and changing conditions forced McLaren into a late pit stop, temporarily dropping him down the order. For several tense laps, Hunt was unaware of his exact championship position and pushed desperately through the field.

In the closing stages, he overtook both Alan Jones and Clay Regazzoni to secure third place – just enough to claim the 1976 Formula 1 World Championship by a single point.

As Hunt crossed the finish line exhausted and emotionally drained, he completed one of the greatest title-winning drives in Formula 1 history. The victory capped a season filled with controversy, danger, courage, and determination, forever cementing Hunt’s place among the sport’s greatest champions.

Today, the 1976 Japanese Grand Prix is remembered not only as the race that crowned James Hunt World Champion, but as one of Formula 1’s defining moments – a dramatic finale that perfectly captured the intensity and unpredictability of 1970s Grand Prix racing.

The Making of the James Hunt Sculpture

Paul Oz is F1's portrait artist and sculptor, working with most teams on the grid to create artwork and bronze monuments of the sports icons that he loves. His commissions include artworks for F1 world champions Lewis, Jenson and Max, partnering with the Senna and Hunt families to celebrate their inspirational relatives, and with the likes of McLaren and F1 themselves to recreate their journey through both painting and sculpture.

We are thrilled to be able offer a Limited Edition resin replica of the James Hunt bronze, green-lighted by Zak Brown to mark the 30th anniversary of the world champion's life being tragically cut short.

You can read the Paul Oz Blog Post The Making of James Huntand learn how Oz used Freddie Hunt wearing his father's race suit for accuracy and authenticity.