Zakspeed: From Touring Cars to Grand Prix Racing
Zakspeed, a renowned racing team, achieved great success in the world of touring cars, GTs, and sportscars. However, their foray into Grand Prix racing from 1985 to 1989 was rather underwhelming, with only a single points finish to their name.
The story of Zakspeed begins after World War II when the Zakowski family relocated from Prussia and settled in the town of Niederzissen, which happened to be in close proximity to the iconic Nurburgring circuit. It was here that Erich Zakowski, the founder of Zakspeed, honed his skills as a mechanic and eventually established his own garage.
Driven by his passion for racing, Zakowski expanded his enterprise to include a racing division within his garage. This marked the birth of Zakspeed as a racing team, specializing in various motorsport disciplines.
A Daring Entry into Grand Prix Racing
In 1985, Zakspeed decided to take on a new challenge and entered the world of Formula One. Despite their prior successes, the team faced significant hurdles in the highly competitive realm of Grand Prix racing.
Their five-year stint in Formula One was marked by struggles and setbacks. Zakspeed struggled to secure consistent performance and failed to achieve notable results for the most part. However, they managed to secure a solitary points finish during their tenure, offering a glimmer of hope amidst their disappointments.
An Enduring Legacy
Although Zakspeed’s venture into Grand Prix racing may not have yielded the desired outcomes, their achievements in other disciplines solidified their reputation in the motorsport world.
Prior to their Formula One endeavor, Zakspeed enjoyed tremendous success in touring cars, GT racing, and sportscars. Their expertise in these areas helped establish them as a force to be reckoned with.
Despite the challenges faced in Formula One, Zakspeed’s determination and resilience were evident throughout their five-year journey. Their contribution to the sport should not be overlooked, as they played a significant role in shaping the history of motorsport.
Today, Zakspeed continues to leave a lasting legacy, reminding aspiring racing teams and enthusiasts alike that the pursuit of excellence and the willingness to embrace challenges are key ingredients for success in the world of motorsport.