26/10/2026
Last weekend marked the 50th anniversary of one of Formula 1’s most dramatic races: the 1976 Japanese Grand Prix, an event that would become the defining moment of the legendary Hunt-Lauda rivalry.
Torrential rain beat down on the Fuji Speedway that day, leaving the track flooded and veiled in fog - yet despite serious concerns from several drivers about the unsafe conditions, the race went ahead. Starting in second position, Hunt made a strong start and took the lead into the first corner, and by the end of the second lap, Lauda had returned to the pit and withdrawn from the race, claiming that the conditions were too dangerous to continue.
With his rival no longer in the race, it seemed as though Hunt would take what would be an easy win. However, as the track dried, tyre wear began to cost him his position, and a puncture forced him into the pits, returning to the circuit in fifth position. Yet with just two laps remaining, Hunt surged forwards and overtook the Surtees of Alan Jones and Lauda’s Ferrari teammate Clay Regazzoni to claim third place - taking the World Championship title from Lauda by just one point.
We invite you to explore the outstanding pairing of the Lauda’s Ferrari 312 T2 and Hunt’s McLaren M23D in honour of this remarkable anniversary meticulously replicated at 1:18 scale.
Available to purchase on our website – link in bio.
