
John Surtees, the only person to have won the F1 and 500 GP world titles, has passed away at the age of 83.
That accomplishment alone makes Surtees a true legend of motor racing, which is why he was not only an immortal among his peers but subsequent generations of motorcycle and car racing enthusiasts have also venerated a man who retired from competition in 1972.
Surtees began grand prix motorcycle racing in 1950, and he went onto win seven world titles across the 350cc class (1958-1960) and the premier 500cc category (1956, 1958-1960) riding MV Agustas.

In 1960, at the age of 26, Surtees made his Formula 1 debut in a Lotus and, four years later, now in a Ferrari, he made history by winning the world title. He was second two years later, but by 1970 had formed his own team which ultimately enjoyed more success in lower open-wheel classes – including Mike Hailwood's victory in the 1972 European Formula 2 title. His team closed down in 1978.
Surtees was bestowed a number of titles over the years, including most recently a CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in Britain's New Year's Honours list. But to many the absence of a knighthood for a man whose deeds will probably never be replicated is a travesty.
Surtees died from respiratory failure after being admitted to hospital in February.