Formula One legend Jack Brabham dies

MOTORSPORT great and three-time Formula One world champion Sir Jack Brabham has died overnight, aged 88.

A release posted to the Brabham family’s website this morning said Mr Brabham, the first man to be knighted in recognition of his contribution to motorsport, died peacefully at his Gold Coast home on Monday morning.

“Formula One world champion in 1959, 1960 and 1966, and double constructors’ champion (1966 and 1967), Sir Jack was one of the most accomplished drivers and team owners in the history of the sport,” the post announcing his death said.

“Black Jack, as Sir Jack was known, rose from racing midgets on dirt ovals in Australia to dominate global motorsport.” Sir Jack claimed his first two world championships in a rear-engined Cooper Climax, in 1959 and 1960.

However, it was his title won in 1966, driving a Brabham BT19 designed and built by his own race team that will stand out as the most significant of his world titles.

“Acclaimed as a brilliant engineer, technological innovations brought about by the Brabham team helped to shape the sport today,” the release said.

“Through his partnership with Ron Tauranac, over 500 Brabham racecars were built from the team’s British Surrey base in the 1960s alone, while the Brabham name continued in F1 for 30 years.

“Although Jack scored his final win in the 1970 South African Grand Prix, the legacy has continued with all three of his sons achieving their own global success, while third-generation drivers Matthew and Sam are building their own notable racing careers.” Sir Jack’s youngest son David said in a statement: “It’s a very sad day for all of us.

“He lived an incredible life, achieving more than anyone would ever dream of and he will continue to live on through the astounding legacy he leaves behind.” Sir Jack is survived by his wife, Lady Margaret, sons Geoff, Gary and David and their families.