F1 community pays heartfelt tribute to Captain Sir Tom

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Tributes poured in on Tuesday from the F1 community following the passing of Captain Sir Tom Moore, the amazing 100-year-old war veteran who raised millions for the NHS last year.

Captain Sir Tom became an inspiration and a true hero for Britain last spring when he raised an astonishing £38 million for NHS charities by walking 100 laps around his garden during the country's COVID lockdown period.

He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth in July and enjoyed an RAF flypast to mark his 100th birthday.

But Captain Sir Tom was also a big fan of F1 and particularly of McLaren. Lando Norris extended an offer to the legendary veteran to visit Woking and gave him one of his race helmets.

The McLaren driver naturally led the tributes from F1 following Captain Sir Tom's passing from COVID-19 earlier this week.

"With sadness one of the coolest and most inspiring characters has passed away," wrote Norris on social media.

"A man who showed the world what you can do no matter the age or difficulty. It was a pleasure to share some good laughs with you, I’ll remember them. To an inspiration. Rest in peace Captain Sir Tom."

McLaren followed suit with a tribute from its staff, as did Williams.

"Everybody at McLaren is deeply saddened to hear the news of Captain Sir Tom Moore’s passing," the team said.

"His remarkable resilience, courage and optimism will continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts go out to his family at this difficult time."

And seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton also honoured the memory of the man who heroically won the nation's hearts last year.

"I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Captain Sir Tom Moore," said the Mercedes driver.

"He was an inspiration to the entire country and I am honoured to have had the opportunity to be able to tell him how in awe of him I was.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his family today, as well as everyone who has lost a loved one to this virus. Captain Sir Tom was a true hero and we will never forget the incredible man who brought out the best of us at such a difficult time. RIP Captain Sir Tom."

Captain Sir Tom, a shining light in a very dark time and an inspiration for all of us.

RIP and blue skies to you Sir, your duty is done.

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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.