Phil Hill--Loss of a Great
by Chris Hafner
on August 28, 2008
Sad news today, as reported by Jalopnik--Phil Hill has died today at the age of 81. Hill was the first American to win the Formula 1 World Championship, taking the title in 1961 at the wheel of the gorgeous shark-nose Ferrari 156. Hill also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times and was as stellar a sports car driver as an open-wheel racer.
Hill was as known for his classy personality as his driving skill, and he brought his unique insight to the pages of Road & Track as a journalist for several decades. A legend and a gentleman, Hill will be dearly missed.
--Chris H.
Bob Sistek on August 28, 2008 at 03:25 PM
That is sad news indeed. Phil Hill was my hero as a young man growing up reading Road & Track and following Grand Prix and serious sports car racing. Talented and classy, great combination!
Mochi Mochi on August 28, 2008 at 07:05 PM
The loss of a man like Phil Hill is very sad. He was a real inspiration, and for me a childhood hero. That people like Mr Hill come into this world excel, inspire others, and conduct themselves in such a good way leaves a great legacy.