A British Formula One driver who competed in the 1950s and 1960s, known for his racing skills and involvement in the Lotus team.
Cliff Allison, born on February 8, 1932, was a British racing driver who made a name for himself in the world of Formula One, Formula Three, and Sports Cars. Known for his bravery and skill behind the wheel, Allison participated in numerous high-profile races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Grand Prix of Europe.
Allison's racing career began in 1953, when he started competing in Formula Three events. His talent was soon recognized by Colin Chapman, the founder of Lotus Cars, who offered him a spot on his team. This marked the beginning of a successful partnership, with Allison winning the performance prize at the 1957 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving a 744cc Lotus.
Allison's Formula One career spanned from 1958 to 1961, during which he drove for top teams like Lotus, Ferrari, and UDT Laystall. He achieved notable results, including a fourth-place finish at the 1958 Grand Prix of Europe at Spa-Francorchamps. Allison's versatility as a driver also saw him compete in Sports Cars, where he shared a Ferrari with Dan Gurney at the 1959 1000 km Nürburgring race.
Allison's racing career was not without its challenges. In 1960, he was involved in a dramatic accident during practice for the Targa Florio in Palermo, Sicily. His Ferrari crashed into a scrub forest at high speed, but remarkably, Allison emerged unscathed. This brush with danger did not deter him, and he continued to compete at the highest level.
Throughout his career, Allison demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery, earning him a place among the respected racing drivers of his era. While he may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to the world of motorsport are undeniable.
Cliff Allison was born and died in Brough, Westmorland (now Cumbria). He passed away on April 7, 2005, leaving behind a legacy as a daring and accomplished racing driver.
96 Years Old
A legendary racing driver and sportscaster who won 16 Formula One Grands Prix and was inducted into the Motorsport Hall of Fame, known for his exceptional driving skills and charismatic commentary.
96 Years Old
A British Formula One driver who won the World Championship in 1958, known for his aggressive and stylish driving style.
Born in 1922
A British racing driver and team manager who won several Grand Prix races and later managed the Cooper racing team to multiple championships. He's a motorsport legend with a lasting impact on the sport.
93 Years Old
1950s Formula One driver who won six Grands Prix, including the 1957 British Grand Prix, and is considered one of the greatest drivers of his era.
96 Years Old
A two-time Formula One World Champion and Indianapolis 500 winner, known for his charismatic personality and versatility in various racing disciplines.
99 Years Old
Australian Formula One driver who won three World Drivers' Championships and founded the Brabham racing team. He's credited with being the first driver to win a championship in a car of his own construction.
88 Years Old
Founded the iconic McLaren racing team, a legendary force in Formula One, and pioneered innovative car designs.
