The South African Champion book is a work of motorsport literature unlike any other. Over the decades, none has been able to capture the scholarly depth and visual splendor that publisher Michele Lupini achieves in the South African Champion.
This magnificent – and very large – coffee-table book stands as both a comprehensive historical record and love letter to South Africa’s rich, and somewhat chequered, Formula 1 and single-seater racing heritage. We were honoured to receive advance copy to bring you this book review …
SOUTH AFRICAN CHAMPION BOOK
Lupini, a self-described motorsport anorak, has undertaken a herculean task here. South African Champion documents the complete story of F1 and single-seater grand prix racing in the country. What is immediately evident thumbing through the book is that this no mere a reference work. Instead, it is a carefully, chronologically crafted narrative of compelling storytelling.
The expertise of the various authors shines through in every meticulously researched page. As such, the book’s foundation rests on historical reporting from devoted old print titles like Cars in Action. However, Lupini skillfully weaves the years together, to create a cohesive account that’s full of depth.
AMAZING VISUALS BROUGHT TO LIFE
Visually, South African Champion overcomes what could have otherwise been a significant limitation. The book does not rely solely on old, grainy archival photographs. Lupini enriches the book with vibrant, colorful illustrations, created by his own artistic hand (pictured throughout this review). A creative choice that transforms the experience from black and white into three-dimensional action.
All of a sudden, readers can visualise the excitement and atmosphere of the races detailed in the South African Champion. Moreover, the deft illustrations bring an element of historical interpretation, too. Adding to the pivotal moments that defined South African motorsport.
THE ULTIMATE SOUTH AFRICAN CHAMPION
For this author, personally, opening the book in 1937 proves particularly compelling. I’ve only ever read about the fearsome Auto Union propaganda machines racing on South African soil. The spectacular – and ominous – technological marvels that represented the might of Nazi Germany’s engineering prowess. One can only imagine what living in such a time must’ve been like …
The retelling of Rhodesian driver John Love’s remarkable second-place finish at the 1967 Formula 1 Grand Prix at Kyalami is riveting. South African Champion captures both the sporting significance and pride this under-dog moment generated. Similarly, Jody Scheckter’s 1975 victory in front of his home fans at Kyalami is one of the highlights.
As is the 1983 Formula 1 season finale, where Nelson Piquet clinched an unlikely world championship. South African Champion also deftly broaches the political turmoil of the time. And bittersweet international sanctions that eventually excluded South Africa from the F1 calendar by 1985.
A MUST-HAVE RECORD OF SA MOTORSPORT
What distinguishes South African Champion is the sheer confidence of its undertaking. How the analytical rigour and historical scholarship of the book is made so accessible through an engaging format. At R3 350, this limited-edition offering represents a significant investment, but then this is one significant book. Only 500 copies are planned initially, available exclusively through www.southafricanchampion.com.
This is a passion project in the finest sense of the word. And it is a work that could only have been created with somebody like Lupini’s unique combination of expertise and deep love for motorsport. South African Champion is therefore an essential addition to any motorsport library. And a fitting tribute to a remarkable chapter in South African racing history that deserves preservation and celebration.
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