United States Grand Prix 1972 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Jackie Stewart ended the season with his fourth victory of 1972, leading home teammate François Cevert for Tyrrell's final 1-2 finish of the year at the United States Grand Prix at Watkins Glen. The defending champion controlled the race on the fast, flowing New York circuit, demonstrating that Tyrrell's competitiveness had been restored after early-season struggles. Denny Hulme finished third for McLaren, capping a solid season for the New Zealand veteran.

The race at Watkins Glen's spectacular natural road course saw Stewart deliver a commanding performance, building an early lead and managing it expertly over the race distance. Cevert drove an excellent supporting race to secure second place, the young Frenchman's consistency throughout 1972 establishing him as Tyrrell's heir apparent to Stewart. Hulme's podium finish secured third place in the championship standings, a creditable achievement for the 36-year-old in what would prove to be one of his final competitive seasons.

The season finale provided an opportunity for reflection on a campaign that had seen Emerson Fittipaldi emerge as champion through remarkable consistency and the Lotus 72D's continued competitiveness. Stewart's four victories demonstrated he remained capable of winning when his machinery held together, but reliability issues had cost him the opportunity to defend his title. The Tyrrell 1-2 finish at Watkins Glen provided a positive end to a frustrating season and set the stage for Stewart's championship assault in 1973. For Fittipaldi, his absence from the podium mattered little - he was already champion, and his place in Formula 1 history was secure.