Legendary motorsport commentator Murray Walker, an immensely popular figure who commanded huge affection among fans and in the F1 paddock, has passed away at the age of 97.
Walker, whose passion for motorsport was inspired by his father, a works Norton motorcycle rider, did occasional F1 commentaries in the 1970s before focusing full time on the sport in 1978 with the BBC.
From 1980 until 1993, the Briton formed an unsuspecting but massively popular double act with 1976 F1 world champion James Hunt.
Walkers animated commentary coupled with Hunt's insight and opinionated banter thrilled British F1 viewers.
After Hunt's death two days after the 1993 Canadian GP, Walker was joined in the commentary booth at the BBC or later at ITV by various distinguished consultants, including Martin Brundle, until his retirement in 2001.
A proponent of researching the facts, Murray Walker was as knowledgeable as he was articulate during his 52-year-long TV commentary career.
But the Brition was perhaps best known for his famous 'Murrayisms', or verbal slip-ups that found their way into his colorful commentary and which many fans fondly recall.
"There's nothing wrong with the car except it's on fire," he once declaimed, adding on another occasion that "With half the race gone there is half the race to go".
"Do my eyes deceive me or is Senna's car sounding a bit rough?" was another memorable quote, as was "The battle is well and truly on if it wasn't on before, and it certainly was".
But Walker's most famous 'Murrayism' was perhaps his unforgettable, "Unless I'm very much mistaken... I am very much mistaken!", a phrase often borrowed by others.
The British Racing Drivers' Club issued a statement that paid tribute to one of its most notorious associates.
"It’s with great sadness we share the news of the passing of BRDC Associate Member Murray Walker OBE.
"A friend, a true motorsport legend, the nations favourite commentator and a contagious smile. Murray will be sadly missed , his mark and voice will live on in motorsport and in our hearts forever.
"We thank Murray for all he has done for our community. Sending our love and thoughts to Murray's family and friends in this difficult time.
"RIP our friend."
Needless to say, the tributes for Murray walker poured in from F1.
So sad to hear of Murray’s passing. I remember growing up hearing your voice over the races. You made the sport so much more exciting and captivating. The iconic voice of our sport and a great man, thank you for all you did, you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace🙏🏾
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) March 13, 2021
Rest in Peace Murray Walker. Wonderful man in every respect. National treasure, communication genius, Formula One legend.
— Martin Brundle 💙 (@MBrundleF1) March 13, 2021
Today we say farewell to one of the greats of our sport, Murray was the voice of F1 for so many years, he put his heart and soul into commentating. The legend will always live on in our memories but today in Murray’s words “I’ve got to stop because I have a lump in my throat” pic.twitter.com/Z10RcslkGk
— Jenson Button (@JensonButton) March 13, 2021
God's Speed Murray and thanks for so much. The Legend will never die. #Murray #F1 pic.twitter.com/s3HBqeoYLz
— Damon Hill (@HillF1) March 13, 2021
