Engines of Power: Formula 1's FISA vs FOCA Conflict Part 1 (1964-1977)

Deadly Passions, Terrible Joys

Mar 18, 2025•42 min•Season 2Ep. 4

--:--

Listen in podcast apps:

Episode description

Many of the defining characteristics of modern Formula 1 — two-car teams, limits on who can enter the sport, big-money broadcasting deals, and so much more — are the direct result of a decades-long battle between the Formula One Constructors Association (FOCA, which represented the teams) and the Federation du Sport Automobile (FISA, a subsidiary of the FIA).

Fans have likely heard of the FISA/FOCA war, but truly understanding how it impacted the sport of Formula 1 isn't easy when there were so many little battles taking place from 1964 through to 1987. In this special two-part feature on “Deadly Passions, Terrible Joys,” we're going to uncover everything there is to know about the FISA/FOCA war — and in this section, we'll dig into the origins of FOCA and its grievances with F1’s lack of professionalization.

To find out more about Deadly Passions, Terrible Joys: https://linktr.ee/deadlypassionsterriblejoys

Subscribe on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/deadlypassionsterriblejoys

Subscribe on Substack: https://deadlypassionsterriblejoys.substack.com/

Follow DPTJ on BlueSky: @deadlypassions-pod.bsky.social

Follow DPTJ on Instagram: @deadlypassionsterriblejoys

Follow DPTJ on Twitter/X: @terriblejoy_pod

Watch on YouTube: @eliz_blackstock

Follow Elizabeth Blackstock on BlueSky: @elizablackstock.bsky.social

Follow Elizabeth Blackstock on Instagram: @elizablackstock

Follow Elizabeth Blackstock on Twitter/X: @eliz_blackstock

Order Racing with Rich Energy: https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/racing-with-rich-energy

Episode Bibliography:

For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android

Open in Metacast