Sir Jackie Stewart, born John Young Stewart on June 11, 1939, is a retired Scottish racing driver who is considered one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time. With three World Championship titles to his name, Stewart was renowned for his smooth driving style, intelligence on the track, and dedication to safety in motorsport.
Stewart began his racing career in the 1960s, making his Formula One debut in 1965 with the BRM team. He quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, securing his first World Championship in 1969 driving for the Matra team. He followed this up with two more titles in 1971 and 1973, driving for the Tyrrell team.
Throughout his career, Stewart was known for his meticulous attention to detail and focus on safety. He was instrumental in pushing for improved safety measures in Formula One, following the deaths of several drivers in the 1960s and 1970s. Stewart’s advocacy for improved safety led to the implementation of measures such as safety barriers, improved medical facilities, and more stringent safety regulations.
Aside from his success on the track, Stewart was also known for his business acumen. After retiring from racing in 1973, he went on to establish a successful second career as a team owner and commentator. He also founded the Grand Prix Legends racing team, which competed in historic motorsport events.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Stewart was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2001, becoming Sir Jackie Stewart. He has since been involved in various charitable activities, raising awareness for dyslexia (from which he suffers) and supporting various causes related to brain injury research.
At 82 years old, Sir Jackie Stewart remains an iconic figure in the world of motorsport, his legacy as a champion driver and safety advocate continuing to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. His impact on the sport cannot be understated, and his achievements will continue to be celebrated for years to come.