Surtees that prompted an F1 TV boycott greeted by Classic Nostalgia

The latest update for the Classic Nostalgia weekend event at Shelsley Walsh highlights the controversial Surtees TS19 car that led to British television companies refusing to broadcast Formula 1 racing back in 1976. The team boss, John Surtees, had entered into a sponsorship deal with the London Rubber Company leading to the Durex condom’s logo being featured on one of the cars – an image that was considered unacceptable for daytime family viewers by the likes of BBC and ITV. However, despite the blackout, highlights of the 1976 season were shown for the title showdown in Japan, in which James Hunt emerged as the winner. The Classic Nostalgia weekend will feature the Surtees TS19 car raced by future World Champion Alan Jones in 1976, as well as a variety of classic cars from 65 years of the British Touring Car Championship and 90 years of ERA and Railton down to 60 years of both McLaren and the legendary Mini Cooper S among other features. Over 30 car clubs have already registered their attendance, and there will also be non-stop live entertainment on offer. Early bird tickets are being offered at a discounted price until the end of April.