32. Sir Jackie Stewart

Jackie Stewart
Age 81
Occupation Former Driver, Rolex Ambassador
Nationality Scottish
Position Last Year 35

Born in Scotland in 1939, Sir Jackie Stewart is undoubtedly an emblematic figure in contemporary motor racing. His achievements make him one of the most celebrated Formula 1 drivers of the last 50 years. His commitment to driver safety has revolutionized the face of motorsport. He has also gone on to achieve one of the greatest reputations as a sportsman in the media world.

Click here to subscribe to our print edition!

Sir Jackie Stewart took part in 99 Formula 1 Grand Prix races, winning 27, carrying off three world championships (1969, 1971 and 1973) and finishing 43 times on the podium. He has been a Rolex Testimonee since 1968. In tribute to his exceptional career, in 2012 he was designated Grand Marshal of the 50th-anniversary edition of the Rolex 24 At Daytona.

Stewart was also instrumental in improving the safety of motor racing, campaigning for better medical facilities and track improvements at motor racing circuits.

After John Surtees’ death in 2017, he is the last surviving Formula One World Champion from the 1960s. Owner of Right Formula, which has become established as the largest agency in Formula 1, representing more sponsors than any other agency.

He also frequented the corporate boardrooms of big business and became a multi-millionaire long before he hung up his helmet. He starred in TV commercials and advertising campaigns, gave speeches, went on worldwide promotional tours and had offices in London, New York and Switzerland, where he lived for several years. Stewart was well-placed to cash in on the dividends provided by the arrival of major sponsors when Formula 1 racing became a global television spectacle – a phenomenon in which he also played a major role.

Sir Jackie Stewart became a much sought after media personality and a compelling TV commentator, explaining the intricacies of the sport and tirelessly promoting it. In 1971 he worked for ABC TV as co-host for the big American network’s live coverage of the Monaco Grand Prix. On the starting grid, where his Tyrrell was on pole, Stewart spoke to the camera explaining in detail how difficult the race would be. At the finish line, he pulled off his helmet and again addressed the camera, explaining how he had won.

He was always a winner (even his new Stewart Grand Prix team won in 1999 before he sold it to Ford, who re-branded it Jaguar, which went nowhere) and Sir Jackie Stewart remains one of the best-known Formula 1 champions. He still loves the sport and in 2001 he received a knighthood for his contributions to it.

prev View full list next



There are no comments

Add yours