Formula in 1949

A young Mexican businessman, Fernando González Luna Bueno, dreamed of creating an all-Mexican Formula 1 team, owned by Mexicans and featuring local drivers. At the end of 1989, he founded Gonzalez Luna Associates (GLAS) and began seeking local sponsors and investors. Then, in June 1990, Gonzalez mysteriously vanished without a trace. To this day, he remains a subject of an active Interpol search.In this episode, Patrick Henz analyzes the intriguing story of GLAS F1 - the Mexican Formula 1 team that never came to be. It's a tale of ambition, mystery, and crime.To end on a high note, we’ll also explore the story of Rebaque - the Mexican Formula 1 team that did exist.

Froilán González was the first driver to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix for Ferrari, achieving the team’s historic victory at the 1951 British Grand Prix. Patrick Henz analyzes his life, career, and legacy as part of a renowned group of Argentine drivers of that era.

Discover the fascinating tale of the Cisitalia 360 GP, a groundbreaking Formula One car designed to revolutionize racing with its rear-engine and four-wheel-drive setup. From its ambitious beginnings in Italy to a high-stakes journey across continents, this car's story takes you from the workshops of Turin, through political turmoil in Argentina, and ultimately to its final resting place in Germany. A legend of engineering, ambition, and adventure awaits!

In 2022, more cryptocurrency, blockchain, and NFT companies joined Formula 1 as sponsors. In this episode, Patrick Henz explores the vision of cryptoas the 'new tobacco,' the technology behind these innovations, and whether this trend was just a bubble or the start of a lasting partnership between crypto and Formula 1. 

In the year before the official Formula 1 World Championship was introduced, Alfa Romeo opted to skip the season, while a familiar name resurfaced in Argentina. Join Patrick Henz as he analyzes the exciting races of 1949. 

Explore another year of pre-championship Formula 1 Grand Prix races! In this episode, we discuss Argentina's ambitious plan to boost motorsports and establish itsown car manufacturing industry. Plus, we celebrate the first success of Ferrari's inaugural Formula 1 car, the iconic 125 F1. Join Patrick Henz, as he takes you through these exciting stories and provides an in-depth look at the 1948 races! 

Millions of PlayStation fans know the iconic Japanese Dome Zero from the Gran Turismo series, but the real story behind its creators is just as fascinating. In this episode, Patrick Henz uncovers the history of Dome, a company fueled by passion and ambition, and its daring attempt to break into Formula 1 in the 1990s. Discover the Italian connections, the setbacks, and the dreams that inspired this bold endeavor—and learn how a series of unfortunate events kept this 'child’s dream' from becoming a reality.

Step into the fascinating world of motorsport history as Patrick Henz delves into the story of the legendary Lancia Ferrari D50. From Vincenzo Lancia's groundbreaking vision to Cesare Fiorio's influential role, explore Lancia’s remarkable journey through triumph and tragedy. Learn about its iconic Formula 1 legacy, the partnership with Ferrari, and the intriguing possibility of a comeback in the early 1980s. A must-watch for motorsport enthusiasts, this episode celebrates the innovation and resilience that defined Lancia's racing story.

What drives a Formula 1 champion—on and off the track? In this episode, I use Niia's concept album Bobby Deerfield as a lens to analyze the film Bobby Deerfield, starring Al Pacino and set during the dramatic 1976 Formula 1 Championship. Delve into the story of Bobby Deerfield, a Brabham-Alfa Romeo driver, and uncover parallels with real-life Brazilian racer Carlos Pace, whose career was tragically cut short. By blending cinematic themes, Pace's legacy, and psychological theories, this episode offers a unique exploration of the mindset of F1 drivers and the mental resilience required in motorsport.   Trigger Warning: Although not a primary focus of this episode, topics such as death, terminal illness, and suicide are mentioned. If you prefer to avoid these subjects, please skip this episode. If needed, consider seeking professional support.   Niia - Bobby Deerfield (album)

Step back to 1947, a pivotal year in motorsport history! Although Formula One as we know it was still in its infancy – without a formal championship or fully established rules – the season was packed with thrilling races, especially in South America.   Discover how these early competitions helped build Formula One’s enduring legacy in Argentina and Brazil. Join Patrick Henz as he analyzes drivers, cars, and unforgettable moments that made 1947 a year to remember in racing history.