Oliver WhiteIt has been announced with tremendous sadness that America’s first Formula One world champion, Phil Hill, has passed away this evening in California. At a grand age of 81, Phil had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease and finally gave up the fight after a long struggle. Hill had become the first and to date only American-born driver to win the F1 title when in 1961, he lifted the crown and brought a smile to Enzo Ferrari’s face.
Despite only winning three races in his 48-event career in Formula One, Hill was much loved by the paddock and fans alike. Even though Phil didn’t reach the pinnacle of motor sport until quite late in comparison to others, once there he made the best of it and would often combine his duties in single-seaters with the Le Mans 24 Hours race in France. Hill won the endurance race three times before finally hanging up his overalls for the last time in 1967.
Phil Hill is survived by his wife Alma, his son Derek, his two daughters Vanessa and Jennifer and his four grandchildren.
Indeed a sad moment for the Formula 1 community, in particular those of us who love the sport here in America. My prayers go out to the Hill family and the many friends that Phil left behind, both in and out of the motor racing world.
Rest in Peace Phil, you will be greatly missed.
Phil Hill was a great sportsman, a fierce racer and a true genteleman. I was fortunate enough to meet and talk with him a number of times in the early 60’s. His love and understanding of the sport and deep apprection of automobiles in general are qualites I’ve tried to emulate throughout my life and pass along to my children.
I’m very sad for this notice.
He is one of my heroes, a gentleman.
We’ll miss you.