F1 icon Sir Frank Williams dies aged 79 as tributes pour in for legend
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Formula One legend Sir Frank Williams has passed away aged 79.
Sir Frank founded the iconic Williams team in 1977 and helped them become a household name in the pinnacle of motorsport.
A Williams statement released on Sunday said: "It is with great sadness that on behalf of the Williams family, the team can confirm the death of Sir Frank Williams CBE, Founder and Former Team Principal of Williams Racing, at the age of 79.
"After being admitted into hospital on Friday, Sir Frank, passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by his family.
"Today we pay tribute to our much loved and inspirational figurehead. Frank will be sorely missed. We request that all friends and colleagues respect the Williams family’s wishes for privacy at this time.
"For those wishing to pay tribute, we ask that donations are made in place of gifts to the Spinal Injuries Association, alternatively we would welcome flowers to be placed at the entrance of the team’s headquarters in Grove, Oxfordshire. Details of the memorial service will follow in due course."
Williams has used a wheelchair since being injured in a car accident in France in 1986.
He stepped down from the board of the Williams F1 team in 2012 and ceased to have any involvement in the team in September this year following its sale to Dorilton Capital.
Williams founded the team in 1977 and they secured a first Formula One victory at the British Grand Prix two years later.
Williams went on to deliver the Constructors’ Championship nine times between 1980 and 1997.
The longest-serving team boss in the sport’s history, Williams oversaw 114 victories and helped deliver seven Drivers’ Championship titles, including for Britain’s Nigel Mansell and Damon Hill.
- Formula One
- Family
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