Jackie Stewart

Sir Jackie Stewart was born on June 11, 1939, in Dumbartonshire, Scotland. He is a former Formula 1 racing driver, often referred to as the 'Flying Scot'. Stewart is widely recognized for his success in the sport, his campaigns to improve safety standards in motor racing, and his work as a team owner. Prior to his racing career, Stewart took part in clay pigeon shooting competitions and was short-listed for the British Olympic team.

Jackie Stewart achieved his first major victory at the 1965 Italian Grand Prix on September 12, driving for BRM. This victory marked the beginning of an illustrious career in Formula One racing for Stewart, who was quickly becoming known for his skill and precision on the track. The 1965 season was notable for Stewart as he finished third in the World Championship standings, proving that he was a rising star in the sport.

During the 1966 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, Jackie Stewart was involved in a severe crash that had a profound impact on his future advocacy for safety improvements in Formula 1. His BRM car crashed at high speed in wet conditions, leaving him trapped in his car for almost half an hour due to a lack of adequate safety features. This incident galvanized Stewart's lifelong efforts to push for stronger safety measures across the sport, which eventually led to significant changes in F1 racing safety regulations.

In 1969, Jackie Stewart secured his first World Championship Title in Formula 1. Competing with the Matra team, Stewart dominated the season, winning 6 out of 11 races. His success brought significant attention to Formula 1 and solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s top drivers. Stewart's precise driving style and consistency were key factors in his success, and his efforts contributed to Formula 1's growing popularity worldwide during that era.

Jackie Stewart won his second Formula 1 World Championship title in 1971. Driving for Tyrrell, Stewart displayed brilliance throughout the season, clinching the championship with victory at the Canadian Grand Prix in Mosport Park. This season reiterated Stewart's capability and dominance in the sport, as he was able to win 6 out of the 11 races that year, further engraving his name in motorsport history as one of the greatest.

In 1973, Jackie Stewart claimed his third and final World Championship title, cementing his legacy in the annals of Formula 1 history. Stewart's flawless driving and strategic acumen throughout the season saw him win 5 races and secure several podium finishes, allowing him to clinch the title before announcing his retirement. His final season was a testament to his enduring skill and competitiveness in the sport, despite increasing competition from younger drivers.

Sir Jackie Stewart founded the Stewart Grand Prix Formula 1 team in 1996 with his son, Paul Stewart. The team quickly made an impact in the sport, thanks to its strong engineering and leadership. The highlight for the team came in 1999 when it scored a memorable victory in the European Grand Prix. Despite its successes, the team was sold to Ford in 1999 and rebranded as Jaguar Racing. Stewart's venture into team ownership showcased his enduring commitment to the sport beyond his driving career.

The Stewart Grand Prix team, co-founded by Sir Jackie Stewart, celebrated its first and only victory at the 1999 European Grand Prix held at the Nürburgring, Germany. With driver Johnny Herbert at the wheel, the team capitalized on adverse weather conditions and robust tactical decisions to seize victory. This win was a significant milestone for the team and recognized the Stewart leadership in the transition into Formula 1 team management, before its eventual sale to Ford later that year.

In the year 2000, Jackie Stewart was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his contributions to motorsport and his extensive advocacy for driver safety. Stewart has been a key figure in pushing for the implementation of safer racing practices, which have saved countless lives over the decades. His work has not only improved safety standards in Formula 1 but across the wider motorsport industry, emphasizing his impact beyond his years as a racing driver.

In 2001, Sir Jackie Stewart was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his services to motorsport. The honor acknowledged Stewart’s contributions not only as a champion driver but also his relentless efforts towards improving safety standards in Formula 1. Stewart was a vocal advocate for better safety measures during his career, campaigning for improvements such as circuit safety barriers, better medical support, and driver equipment standards, making F1 much safer for future generations.