Mike Hawthom

Racing driver Mike Hawthorn: Formula 1 world champion and a true legend of the track

Mike Hawthorn - 1958 (Ferrari)

Mike Hawthorn was a British racing driver who became the first British Formula 1 World Champion in 1958. Born on April 10, 1929, in Mexborough, England, he was known for his charismatic personality and distinctive bow tie, which he often wore while racing. Hawthorn's championship win came while driving for Ferrari, and he was recognized for his competitive spirit and smooth driving style. Despite his success on the track, his career was also overshadowed by the tragic 1955 Le Mans disaster, in which one of his racing actions contributed to the catastrophic event. He retired from racing at the end of his championship-winning season but tragically died in a road accident in 1959, just a few months later. His legacy remains as one of the pioneering British figures in Formula 1 history.