10 Unsung Heroes Of History

The 1976 Formula 1 season was perhaps the most exciting and unpredictable season in the 70 years of the sport. Niki Lauda's title defense from the supremely talented James Hunt was ripe for narratives to be created, and after a horrifying crash at the '76 German Grand Prix, the season would see its most significant occurrence.

After taking a sweeping left-hander in the pouring rain, Lauda's Ferrari went barrelling into the wall, and after spinning back onto the track the car immediately caught fire. Trapped in an 800+ degree inferno, Arturo Merzario hopped out of his car, freed Lauda from his seat and pulled the driver from the wreckage.

Walking into a blazing fire to save the life of a fellow competitor is the peak of sportsmanship and valour, and Merzario's efforts would ensure that Lauda would live to the grand old age of 70 before his death in 2019.

After James Hunt took advantage of Lauda's absence, racking up points and shrinking the gap in the championship, the reigning champion would return a mere two races later. Merzario's heroics not only allowed him to continue to fight for the championship, but also ensured the driver's life would be preserved.