Formula 1 (F1) legend Murray Walker OBE, passed away at the weekend, aged 97. He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years Elizabeth.
Mr Walker retired from commentating the F1 races in 2001, but with generations like myself growing up with his enthusiasm for the sport, it bred a new generation of F1 lovers.
One of Mr Walker’s most famous lines was heard when Damon Hill won his first and only World Championship in 1996 at the Japanese Grand Prix. Walker said:
“I’ve got to stop now, because I’ve got a lump in my throat.”
Following the news of his passing, Damon Hill said:
“Murray has been with me for my whole life, and I don’t think anybody thought this day would come, but sadly it has.”
He added:
“Maybe old soldiers never die? His legacy and his memory is so strong, and what he gave to so many Formula 1 fans and a number of people he affected, he became bigger than the sport, so we have a lot to be thankful to Murray for.
“He could emote the events that happened in our sport. The shocking moments, and the dramatic moments all have Murray’s reaction to them and he made those events stick in your mind forever.
“And he allowed himself not to be the know-it-all commentator, but the fan who, at times, got over excited.”
A statement from the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC) said:
“It’s with great sadness we share the news of the passing of BRDC associate member Murray Walker OBE.
“A friend, a true motorsport legend, the nation’s favourite commentator and a contagious smile.
“We thank Murray for all he has done for our community. RIP our friend.”
An F1 statement said:
“We are immensely sad to hear that Murray Walker has passed away.
“His passion and love of the sport inspired millions of fans around the world. He will forever be a part of our history, and will be dearly missed.”
