After making its Formula 1 debut in 1967, Matra made a strong comeback for the 1968 season, with an official team in charge of developing the V12 engine, and the Tyrrell Racing Organization using Cosworth engines. The factory team mostly used MS11s, but before this new car was ready, Matra fielded a properly adapted MS7 ex-F.2 at the South African GP, with which Beltoise finished sixth.