Murray Walker dead: Lewis Hamilton issues emotional tribute to iconic F1 commentator

F1: Walker predicts Hamilton career in 2008

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Lewis Hamilton has paid tribute to legendary F1 commentator Murray Walker following news of his death on Saturday. The world of motorsport was in mourning after news broke that Walker had passed away at the age of 97.

The charismatic F1 figure will go down in history as the voice of Formula One having been a full-time commentator on the sport from 1978 until his retirement in 2001.

He was still involved in some small capacities after he retired though, often making appearances at the British Grand Prix.

Walker would also admit to being an avid viewer of the sport in the years of Hamilton’s dominance with Mercedes.

And the seven-time world champion was devastated to hear of Walker’s passing.

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“So sad to hear of Murray’s passing,” Hamilton wrote on his Instagram story.

“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.”

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Walker clearly held Hamilton in high regard, admitting last year that he expects the British racing superstar to win nine world titles before calling his time on his career.

“[Juan Manuel] Fangio took a lot of beating, [as did] Jim Clark, Sir Jackie Stewart – I could go on – but which is the best I really don’t know,” Walker said in August 2020.

“I used to say Fangio. I think I’m going to have to say very shortly Lewis Hamilton.

“If you look at it in terms of statistics, he’s already got more poles than Michael Schumacher. He’s got at least three years in him if he doesn’t hurt himself or leave Mercedes for some reason or they decide to stop.

“In which case, he’s got at least another three championships ahead of him, so statistically he will become the greatest.”

Walker struck up a strong relationship with drivers from all generations, who all paid tribute to the former F1 commentator.

Damon Hill said: “God’s Speed Murray and thanks for so much. The Legend will never die.”

Martin Brundle tweeted: “Rest In Peace, Murray Walker. Wonderful man in every respect. National treasure, communication genius, Formula One legend.”

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