 |  |
© SCRAN | |
|
Starting the championship with a victory in South Africa, he then followed up with a win on Spanish circuit Montjuich Park. Belgian Jacky Ickx provided little opposition as Stewart finished 26 points ahead of his closest challenger, winning on home soil in Great Britain along the way.
Considering his obvious ability, and desire to win, it is classed as strange that some of his best races were ones that he didn't win. Most notably at Spa in 1967 when he was forced to hold his car in gear for the entire race.
Despite driving the whole course one handed, he finished an impressive close second. Not only that, but on a track which nearly claimed his life the previous year and with a H16 BRM, a car notoriously difficult to drive.
After 27 Grand Prix wins, a record which went unrivalled for more than a decade, and two more F1 titles, Sir Jackie Stewart, as he became after receiving a knighthood in 2001, is a true legend never afraid to make an independent stand.
He stands out as a shining example because of his consistency behind a steering wheel, and a sponsor's dream, with his name becoming synonymous with F1 all round the world.
Never has a driver pushed for safety standards to be improved as much as Stewart. From every aspect spanning circuit and car improvements, to being one of the first to wear full-face helmets and seat-belts.
Described as the perfect ambassador, Stewart will forever be remembered for his brilliance, determination and Scottish cap coupled with aviator glasses.
His win in 1969 speaks for itself, but it also put Scotland firmly on the F1 map, with Jackie Stewart's name known the world over. He remains to this day a sportsman admired and respected for his brilliance on the track, and his endless push for better safety measures off it.
Page: 12
