From the moment Stirling Moss alighted from his first test of a Mercedes-Benz in December 1954 – an immaculate mechanic snapping to with hot water, soap, flannel and a clean towel – his world was never the same again and, despite his repeated ‘failures’ to become its official champion, nor would F1 be. For although five-time champion Juan Fangio was a household name, human dynamo Moss would become a global presence. His openness and willingness would accelerate its growth and extend its reach, and his stubbornness and genius would ensure that Britain eventually benefited most.

The first of three Monaco GP victories. By 1956, Moss had already won his first grand prix, the British in 1955. But with Mercedes-Benz now withdrawn from motor sport, its point proven, Stirling returned to a Maserati 250F – but this time as a works driver. At Monaco, Fangio took pole in his Lancia-Ferrari, but his former ‘apprentice’ showed him the way in the race, leading every lap. Strangely off form, Fangio took over Peter Collins’ car to finish second

F1’s 1954 return after a two-year Formula 2 interregnum – during which Moss had at best marked time in homegrown, undercooked machinery – brought a change of tack: ‘Pa’ Moss got ‘The Boy’ a Maserati 250F. Moss had it painted British racing green – young habits die hard – and set about convincing any doubters. An impressed works team drew him increasingly under its wing and the car would be entirely red – bar green noseband – by September’s Italian Grand Prix; Moss was a dozen laps from victory when its oil tank split. Mercedes-Benz, always the intended target, was convinced and formed a superteam to match its ambition and budget. Fangio remained virtually unassailable at the highest level, but it was very clear as to who would be picking up the great man’s baton in Formula 1.