Pace Retains His Lead.
Only teams Surtees, BRM, and Ferrari showed for this year’s Italian Grand Prix. Ferrari’s Lauda started on pole leading the six car field. Pace also sat on the first row followed by his teammate Mass and Beltoise. Pescarolo and Regazzoni filled the final row.
During the opening moments of the race, Pace, Lauda, and Mass passed Pescarolo. Lauda moved into the lead for a time.
The Ferrari and Surtees drivers battled for the lead for most of the first lap leaving the BRMs behind.
Pace and Mass slipped stream each other working as a team. Mass was first to complete the initial lap. Regazzoni’s Ferrari experienced engine trouble and began to drop back. Pace also lost some engine power, but continued to stay in Mass’ draft. Lauda chased the Surtee’s machines.
During the second lap, team Surtees extended their lead. Lauda tried to close the gap between him and the leaders. Regazzoni unsuccessfully tried to fend off the BRMs. Mass once again was first to complete a lap.
As the final lap progressed, the BRMs surpassed Regazzoni. Mass’ ride ran out of wear and Lauda passed him. Although Lauda closed the gap, he could not pass Pace before Pace was able to win the race.
Race details follow:
1st Tom V. (C. Pace) 40/40/40/180/5 W
2nd Den H. (C. N. Lauda) 60/40/20/160/6 W
3rd Tom V. (J. Mass) 40/40/40/160/5 W**
4th Ray R. (J-P. Beltoise) 60/40/40/180/4 S
5th Ray R. (H. Pescarolo) 40/40/40/180/4 S
6th Den H. (C. Regazzoni) 40/40/20/160/6 S