Vale John Surtees
The great of world motorsport has passed away at the age of 83John 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.
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