British · Belmont, Surrey · Born 29 August 1947British Formula 1 racing driver who won the 1976 World Drivers Championship in a dramatic season-long battle with Niki Lauda, known for his flamboyant lifestyle
James Simon Wallis Hunt was born in Belmont, Surrey in 1947. He won the 1976 Formula 1 World Championship by one point from Niki Lauda — in the most dramatic championship finale in F1 history, at the Japanese Grand Prix, in the rain, with Lauda withdrawing from the race. He was wild, promiscuous, and openly dismissive of the corporate seriousness developing in Formula 1 — his personality was the opposite of the sport's commercial evolution. He retired at 30 citing loss of motivation. He became an outstanding television commentator. He died of a heart attack in 1993 aged 45. The film Rush (2013) dramatised his rivalry with Lauda.
1976 F1 World Championship battle with Niki Lauda
How They Played
Aggressive, fearless racer with natural talent and spectacular overtaking ability
Lasting Impact
Charismatic British F1 champion known for his fearless driving and playboy lifestyle
Career Honours
- F1 World Champion 1976
- Race wins 10
| Constructor | Season(s) | Races |
|---|---|---|
| Hesketh Racing | 1973–1975 | — |
| McLaren | 1976–1978 | — |
| Wolf Racing | 1979 | 7 |
| Career Total | — | 7 |
British Athletes