Former Champ Phil Hill dies, age 81

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Friday 29th August 2008

Phil Hill, the only American-born racer to win the F1 Drivers' title, passed away on Thursday age 81.

Hill, who won the 1961 World Championship while racing for Ferrari, died at the Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula of complications from Parkinson's disease.

Ferrari President Luca Montezemolo paid tributed to the American hailing his love for motor racing and for Ferrari.

"I, as well as all employees of Ferrari, am extremely saddened by the news of the passing of Phil Hill, a man and a Champion who gave so much to Ferrari and who has always greatly represented the company's values inside and outside the racing track," Montezemolo said in a statement.

"Phil raced and won many competitions both with prototype cars, like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring, won three times each, as well as with F1 single seaters.

"With our car, Phil won the Formula One Championship title in 1961 as the first American-born to reach this result.

"Phil and I have always kept in touch throughout the years and I know I will miss his passion and love for Ferrari very much. My deepest sympathies are with his wife Alma and son Derek in this sad moment."