Spanish Grand Prix 1976 - Race Schedule and Countdown

James Hunt scored a controversial and dramatic victory at Jarama that would trigger months of protest, appeal, and counter-appeal that defined the 1976 season's acrimonious nature. After a chaotic first lap collision that eliminated several cars, Hunt's McLaren was damaged and received outside assistance to rejoin the race, leading to his initial disqualification. The stewards later reinstated him as the winner, though Ferrari immediately appealed - a decision that wouldn't be resolved until after the season finale.

The race began in chaos when a massive first-lap pileup at the first corner eliminated multiple cars and brought out the red flags. Hunt had been involved in the incident and his damaged McLaren was pushed back to the pits, where his crew made repairs. When the race was restarted, Hunt fought his way through the field in a stunning recovery drive, eventually passing Lauda to claim victory. Niki Lauda finished second, extending his championship lead despite the defeat, while Gunnar Nilsson took a fine third place for Lotus.

The controversy surrounding Hunt's victory epitomized the bitter rivalry and political maneuvering that characterized the 1976 season. Ferrari's appeal argued that Hunt should not have been allowed to take the restart after receiving outside assistance, while McLaren maintained that the regulations were ambiguous. The dispute would drag on for months, adding further tension to an already combustible championship battle between Hunt and Lauda.