Formula One great Brabham dies, aged 88

Australian Jack Brabham, who won three Formula One world titles and is the only man to have won the championship driving a car bearing his name, died yesterday at the age of 88.

A fierce competitor, brilliant engineer and astute businessman, Brabham claimed the Formula One titles in 1959 and 1960 for Cooper Racing before going on to win a third in 1966 for the Brabham marque.

He died at his home on Australia’s Gold Coast.

“It’s a very sad day for all of us,” his youngest son David, who also raced in Formula One, said in a statement.

“My father passed away peacefully at home at the age of 88 this morning. He lived an incredible life, achieving more than anyone would ever dream of and he will continue to live on through the astounding legacy he leaves behind.”