Legend of F1 racing Murray dies aged 97

VOICE OF MOTOR SPORT

- Jon Coates

MURRAY Walker, the voice of motor racing, has died aged 97.

During a broadcasting career spanning more than 50 years, Walker – described as a “national treasure” last night – became synonymous with Formula One, first with the BBC and then ITV, before retiring as a commentator in 2001.

His excitable voice provided the lively backing track to some of F1’s most iconic moments, with his unique, high-octane style – once described by Australian comic Clive James as “sounding like a man whose trousers are on fire” – forever ingrained in British sporting culture.

Walker, who once commanded a Sherman tank in the Second World War, brought to life James Hunt’s 1976 championship win over Niki Lauda, Ayrton Senna’s fierce rivalry with Alain Prost and Nigel Mansell’s 1992 title triumph with his passionate, knowledgeable commentaries spanning 52 years.

When Damon Hill won the Japanese Grand Prix to become world champion in October 1996, an emotional Walker cried: “I have got to stop because I have got a lump in my throat.” Former British F1 driver Sir Jackie Stewart said: “He was a very special man in every respect. I was lucky enough to know him well. In fact, I spoke to him several weeks ago where he was in a home.