It’s a sad day for the motorsports world as THE voice of Formula 1, Murray Walker, has died at the age of 97.
Walker began his broadcasting career in 1948, just after he served as a captain in World War II. First focusing on motorcycles, Walker raced motorcycles and commentated on races as he soon expanded his commentary portfolio to call a wide variety of racing disciplines.
"Lucky is the word: my work has taken me round the world umpteen times to countries I would never otherwise have visited, and I have rubbed shoulders with some outstanding people.
"I have been incredibly, gigantically lucky."
– Murray Walker, 1923-2021https://t.co/ZWCixmsAmw
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 13, 2021
Walker’s main claim to fame was being the longtime play-by-play commentator for Formula 1’s British TV broadcasts, working part-time at first and then becoming the full-time voice with the BBC in 1978. Paired with former World Champion James Hunt, the two of them were the duo many fans worldwide heard on F1 broadcasts until Hunt’s death in 1993. When Martin Brundle joined on as Walker’s partner in 1997, the two picked up right where Walker and Hunt left off until Walker’s retirement from full-time commentary at the end of the 2001 season.
During his numerous broadcasts, Walker would regale viewers with some of his “Murrayisms.” Normally, this would be due to a mistake or a commentary flub but Walker was so enthusiastic and genuine that people forgave him for his occasional mistakes and it became a trait of his.
The Formula 1 world paid tribute to Walker, remembering some of his most memorable moments on air and to pay their respects to a legend of the industry.
"And look at that… That's Mansell!"
Adelaide 1986 – Murray at his effervescent, captivating best pic.twitter.com/mEHDrRjBR1
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 13, 2021
Japan 2000, and Schumacher's first title for Ferrari.
“He is absolutely beside himself with joy – his ultimate dream has been succeeded!” pic.twitter.com/AFA0ef0Y5A
— Formula 1 (@F1) 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
We are all very sad to hear that Murray Walker, the voice of motorsport, passed away earlier today. pic.twitter.com/QJSlILyyP4
— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) March 13, 2021
When we talk about legends in F1, Murray Walker is one of the few to earn the status outside of the cockpit. He was a master of his trade and will always be the voice of F1. Rest in peace, Murray. pic.twitter.com/CgeL0O8zUq
— Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) March 13, 2021
We are truly saddened to hear of Murray Walker's passing.
Murray was the voice of @F1 for so many, and provided unforgettable commentary on many of this team's most iconic moments. His passion for the sport was infectious, and never failed to make people smile. pic.twitter.com/YjN8nfSuia
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) March 13, 2021
Like millions of F1 fans, all of us at McLaren are deeply saddened by the news that Murray Walker has passed away.
He brought our sport to generations by sharing his passion and knowledge with humour and humility. Our thoughts are with all who had the fortune to know him. pic.twitter.com/0NBS1KWxpE
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) March 13, 2021
I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Murray Walker.
— Mika Häkkinen (@F1MikaHakkinen) March 13, 2021
Rest in Peace Murray Walker
Legend ❤️ pic.twitter.com/iAkov2VCnt
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) March 13, 2021
Saying goodbye to an icon of motorsport, Murray Walker. Thank you for capturing, and keeping, the attention of many F1 fans for generations 🙏
And we’ve got to stop, because we’ve got a lump in our throat ❤️ pic.twitter.com/QqJgCUrp6W
— Visa Cash App RB F1 Team (@visacashapprb) March 13, 2021
Deeply saddened to learn of the death of my mentor Murray Walker. Just shy of his century. We lived some great experiences together on the road, many laughs and endless stories. A life incredibly well lived. #MurrayWalker #F1 pic.twitter.com/y0uIjs4eQd
— James Allen (@Jamesallenonf1) March 13, 2021
Rest in peace, Murray Walker. A true legend of F1. Thanks for making millions of fans love our sport. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/F5cEvuycm9
— Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber (@stakef1team_ks) March 13, 2021
Very sad to learn that Murray Walker has passed away. @F1 Grand Prix commentator for over 25 years for the BBC and ITV, notably with James Hunt, he was the voice of Formula 1. All the @FIA family pays tribute to him. My thoughts are with his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/NtD178U8HF
— Jean Todt (@JeanTodt) March 13, 2021
INDYCAR joins the millions of fans around the world mourning the loss of Murray Walker. One of the legendary voices in all of motorsports will be missed. https://t.co/54PlsaG12S
— NTT INDYCAR SERIES (@IndyCar) March 13, 2021
So very sad to hear of the legend Murray Walker OBE passing away .. he was the voice of F1 and so lucky to have worked alongside him in the commentary box : RIP Murray 🙏#murraywalker pic.twitter.com/BE1mrSlIUf
— Mark Blundell (@markblundellf1) 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
[Photo: Formula 1]
