The only man to win titles on both two wheels and four, John Surtees, has died aged 83.
The British Motorsport legend was said to have been suffering with a short illness.
Surtees won the title in 1964 behind the wheel of a Ferrari after taking four world titles in 500cc Motobike racing.
‘John was a loving husband, father, brother and friend. He was also one of the true greats of motorsport and continued to work tirelessly up until recently with The Henry Surtees Foundation and Buckmore Park Kart Circuit,” his family said in a statement.
“We deeply mourn the loss of such an incredible, kind and loving man as well as celebrate his amazing life. He has set a very real example of someone who kept pushing himself at his peak and one who continued fighting until the very end.’
Three time world champion Lewis Hamilton, was testing at the Circuit de Catalonia when the news came through….
“I just heard about John Surtees. To end the day with that kind of news is very sad. He was a legend of the sport - a lovely guy who did so much. It's a shock to everyone. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family,” he said.
1996 World Champion Damon Hill was the first to express his condolences via twitter….
‘Such a lovely man. We have lost a true motorsport legend.’
