Hamilton pays tribute to passed Mercedes executive Hubbert

©AFP

Lewis Hamilton paid tribute to former Mercedes executive Juergen Hubbert who passed away earlier this week aged 81.

A long-standing employee of Daimler-Benz, Hubbert rose through the ranks to take the reins of Mercedes in 1987.

But his name became familiar with racing fans when he oversaw the German manufacturer's return to Formula 1 as an engine supplier and partner to McLaren in the 1990s.

As Mercedes' head figure, Hubbert was credited with rejuvenating the company's customer base through its successful involvement in motorsports and in Grand Prix racing in particular.

"Deeply saddened to hear the news of our friend and family member Jurgen," Hamilton wrote on Instagram.

"He was such a racer at heart and I enjoyed our chats and his enthusiasm for racing. His commitment to Mercedes and the team over the years was inspiring."

Formula 1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali also honoured Hubbert's memory.

"All of us at Formula 1 are deeply saddened to hear that Jurgen Hubbert has passed away," said the Italian. "He was an incredible man and a friend and he will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with his family at this time."

Mercedes chairman Ola Källenius also offered a heartfelt tribute to the company's former leader.

"Juergen Hubbert was Mister Mercedes. With integrity, innovative spirit and great success, he shaped Mercedes-Benz forever,” he said.

"Under his responsibility, a historic product offensive was launched with groundbreaking vehicles such as the A- and M-Class.

"As a leader, he was able to integrate and motivate his teams with a passion for technology and the highest standards for himself. He is forever assured of the appreciation of the entire Mercedes family.

"In gratitude for his many years of good work, we will honour his memory. On behalf of the entire Board of Management of Daimler AG, I send our condolences to his family and relatives.

"We mourn a great personality and a great person."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.