Sir Jackie Stewart, born John Young Stewart on June 11, 1939, in Milton, West Dunbartonshire, Scotland, is a former Formula One racing driver and one of the most successful and influential figures in motorsports history. Known for his outstanding driving skills, strategic brilliance, and safety advocacy, Stewart’s career in Formula One spanned from 1965 to 1973 and is marked by significant achievements both on and off the track.
Growing up in a motorsport-loving family, Jackie Stewart developed a passion for racing from an early age. His father, Jackie Stewart Sr., ran a garage and participated in local hill climbs and rallies. After attending Dumbarton Academy, Stewart began an apprenticeship in his father’s garage, but his passion for racing ultimately led him down a different path.
Stewart first gained recognition in the early 1960s when he started competing in various racing events in Scotland, including hill climbs and sports car races. His talent and determination soon caught the attention of Scottish racing legend and team owner David Murray, who signed Stewart to his Ecurie Ecosse team in 1963.
In 1965, Stewart made his Formula One debut driving for BRM (British Racing Motors). Despite setbacks early in his career, including reliability issues and an accident during the 1966 Belgian Grand Prix that left him trapped under his overturned car, he persevered and quickly established himself as a formidable competitor.
Stewart’s breakthrough came in 1969 when he won his first Formula One World Championship with the Matra team, becoming the first Scottish and British driver to achieve such a feat since Mike Hawthorn in 1958. He followed this success with two more World Championships in 1971 and 1973, driving for the Tyrrell team. In total, Stewart claimed victory in 27 Grand Prix races and achieved 43 podium finishes throughout his career.
Beyond his racing accomplishments, Jackie Stewart is perhaps best known for his influential advocacy for driver safety. Appalled by the high number of fatal accidents in Formula One during his era, he became a vocal campaigner for improved safety measures. Stewart’s relentless efforts to improve driver protection led to numerous reforms, including the introduction of mandatory seat belts, full-face helmets, and better circuit design.
After retiring from racing in 1973, Sir Jackie Stewart continued to make significant contributions to motorsports and beyond. He became a well-known motorsport commentator and served as a consultant for various racing teams and sponsors. Moreover, Stewart played a key role in the establishment of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association (GPDA), which aimed to protect drivers’ rights and ensure their safety.
In recognition of his contributions to his sport and his tireless campaigning for safety, Stewart received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He was knighted in 2001 for his services to motorsport, and in 2007, he became an inductee of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.
Off the track, Stewart has been involved in various business ventures, including a successful car dealership enterprise. He is also a noted philanthropist and founder of “Race against Dementia,” a charity aiming to tackle the impact of dementia.
Jackie Stewart’s impact on motorsports and beyond cannot be overstated. Not only did he redefine the role of a racing driver, but his commitment to safety has saved countless lives in the world of motorsport. Sir Jackie’s influence has spread far beyond racing, with his advocacy for safety inspiring changes in other sports and industries. In his own words, “Safety is something that happens between your ears, not something you hold in your hands.” Stewart’s legacy is one of excellence, safety, and the belief that perseverance can overcome any obstacle.
