There were new rules for 1961, with the arrival of the 1.5 litre formula and Ferrari, who had sacrificed 1960 to build the new car, dominated the season. Drivers Phil Hill and Wolfgang von Trips battled for the title, but another Ferrari driver won on his debut at the French GP. Who was he?

Giancarlo Baghetti won the 1961 French Grand Prix on his World Championship debut, driving a Ferrari. This was a remarkable achievement - becoming the first driver since 1950 to win his debut Formula 1 World Championship race. Ferrari had sacrificed 1960 to prepare for the new 1.5-liter formula, and their investment paid off as they dominated 1961. Baghetti's victory at Reims was a highlight of Ferrari's championship season that also featured the title battle between Phil Hill and Wolfgang von Trips.