A pioneering engineer and racing driver who developed innovative car designs and won the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans. He's credited with creating the first four-wheel drive Formula One car.
Tony Rolt, a British racing driver, soldier, and engineer, is best known for his impressive career in motorsports, including winning the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans and participating in three Formula One World Championship Grands Prix. He was also a war hero, who maintained a long connection with the sport, albeit behind the scenes, and was involved in various engineering projects.
Rolt was born on October 16, 1918, in Bordon, Hampshire, and was brought up in St Asaph, Denbighshire, Wales. He was the fourth child of Brigadier-General Stuart Rolt and was educated at Eton, where he got into trouble for keeping a car. He began competing while at Eton, racing a Morgan three-wheeler in speed trials before making his track debut in 1936, sharing a Triumph Gloria Vitesse with Jack Elliott in the Spa 24 Hours.
Rolt entered the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, in 1939. During World War II, he served in the British Army and was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery. After the war, he returned to racing, competing in various events, including the 1950 British Grand Prix, where he finished 10th.
In 1953, Rolt won the 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving a Jaguar C-Type with Duncan Hamilton. This victory marked the first time a British car had won the event since 1935. He also participated in three Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, finishing 7th in the 1953 Dutch Grand Prix.
Rolt was involved in various engineering projects, including the Ferguson 4WD project, which paid off with spectacular results. He was also involved in other projects, using his skills to improve car design and performance.
Rolt was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery during World War II. He was also inducted into the Motorsport Hall of Fame in 1996, recognizing his contributions to the sport.
At the time of his death on February 6, 2008, Rolt was the longest surviving participant of the first ever World Championship Grand Prix at Silverstone in 1950. He was also one of the last pre-war winners remaining, having won the 1939 British Empire Trophy at the age of 20.
Rolt was married to Lois Graham, and they had two children together. He was known for his bravery, skill, and determination, both on and off the track.
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.
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A British Formula One driver who won the World Championship in 1958, known for his aggressive and stylish driving style.
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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.
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A two-time Formula One World Champion and Indianapolis 500 winner, known for his charismatic personality and versatility in various racing disciplines.
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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.
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Founded the iconic McLaren racing team, a legendary force in Formula One, and pioneered innovative car designs.
