 He told his wife that he would retire from the sport if he became world champion, though he never managed to fulfil his promise.While taking part in a practice session for the 1970 Italian Grand Prix, the front right brakeshaft on Rindt's car failed, sending him into the barriers and killing him.Lotus withdrew from the race and brought in Emerson Fittipaldi to fill the vacant seat at the final grand prix in the United States.