45 Famous Auto Racing Players in United Kingdom Best of All Time

Rob Bunker

The United Kingdom is home to some of the best auto racing players in the world.

From Formula One champions Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button, to rally drivers Colin McRae and Richard Burns, the UK has a long and proud history of producing some of the most talented drivers on the planet.

From the fast and furious thrills of Formula One to the dirt-churning excitement of rally racing, Britain’s best auto racers have conquered every corner of the globe.

This article takes a look at some of the UK’s best auto racers, from the past and present, and their incredible achievements in the sport.

1. Lewis Hamilton

Lewis_Hamilton__1

Sir Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton MBE HonFREng is a highly accomplished British racing driver who is currently competing in Formula One, driving for Mercedes.

Hamilton is widely regarded as one of the most successful drivers in Formula One history, having won a joint-record seven World Drivers’ Championship titles. He also holds a number of Formula One records, including the most wins, pole positions and podium finishes.

Hamilton first entered Formula One in 2007, driving for McLaren. He went on to win the Drivers’ Championship with them in 2008, becoming the then-youngest champion in Formula One history.

Since then, he has gone on to win an additional six World Championships, all with Mercedes, with whom he has been driving since 2013. Hamilton has also achieved a great deal of success outside of Formula One.

In 2018, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to motorsport, and he was also awarded an Honorary Fellowship of the Royal Academy of Engineering (HonFREng) for his services to the engineering industry.

Hamilton has truly established himself as one of the greatest racing drivers of all time. His success in Formula One has been unparalleled, and he has achieved a great deal both on and off the track.

2. Nigel Mansell

Nigel_Mansell__2

Nigel Ernest James Mansell, CBE is a British racing driver who is now retired but achieved immense success during his career. Mansell won both the Formula One World Championship and the CART Indy Car World Series.

He is the only driver in history to have won the Formula One World Championship and the CART Indy Car World Series, which is an incredible accomplishment. Mansell began his career in Formula One in 1980, and by 1985 he had become a race winner.

Over the following years, he was a consistent front-runner, winning the World Drivers’ Championship in 1992.

That same year, he also won 10 out of 16 races, the most of any driver that season. In 1993, Mansell decided to take a break from Formula One and moved to the CART Indy Car World Series.

He had an immediate impact, winning four races and finishing second in the championship standings.

In the 1994 season, he won the championship title, making him the only driver to have won both the Formula One and CART championships. Mansell enjoyed a successful career in both Formula One and the CART Indy Car World Series, and his success earned him the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1993.

He retired from racing in 1995, but his legacy continues to live on. He is remembered as a truly great driver, and his success will forever be remembered in the racing world.

3. Jackie Stewart

Sir John Young Stewart, more commonly known as the “Flying Scot”, is a former Formula One racing driver from Scotland. Stewart had a successful career in Formula One, spanning from 1965 to 1973.

During his nine-year career, Stewart was an incredible champion, winning three World Drivers’ Championships and coming in second place twice.

His success in Formula One is a testament to his racing skills and commitment to the sport, and his nickname as the “Flying Scot” was well earned.

Stewart’s success in the sport was not just limited to his championships, as he also had an impressive streak of podium finishes and pole positions throughout his career.

He was also a trailblazer in the sport, introducing new safety measures for drivers, such as the introduction of the full-face helmet. Stewart’s success in Formula One is a testament to his natural talent and his commitment to the sport.

4. Graham Hill

Graham_Hill__4

Norman Graham Hill was an esteemed British racing driver and team owner, widely respected for his exceptional skills behind the wheel.

He is best known for winning the Formula One World Championship twice, in 1962 and 1968, and for coming in second place in the championship a remarkable three times.

Hill was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1968 for his achievements in the racing world.Hill was born in Hampstead, London in 1929 and became a racing driver at the age of 16.

He made his Formula One debut in 1958 with the Lotus team and soon made a name for himself as an exceptionally talented driver.

He won the Monaco Grand Prix in 1963 and went on to be one of the most successful drivers of the 1960s.In 1962 he won the Formula One World Championship with the BRM team, becoming the first British driver to do so since Mike Hawthorn in 1958.

He followed this up with a second world championship victory in 1968 with the Lotus team. Despite his two championship titles, Hill had to settle for runner-up in the championship on three occasions.

He finished second in 1961, 1965 and 1967, with the latter result additionally securing him the Constructors’ Championship for Lotus. Hill’s exceptional skills behind the wheel, as well as his achievements, earned him the admiration of the British public.

In 1968 he was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to motor racing. Norman Graham Hill was an exceptional racing driver and team owner who will be remembered for his two Formula One World Championship victories, as well as his three runner-up finishes.

He was a true British sporting hero who will never be forgotten.

5. Damon Hill

Damon Graham Devereux Hill, OBE is a British former professional racing driver who achieved success in the world of Formula One. He was born in England and is the son of Graham Hill, who was also a Formula One driver and the 1962 World Champion.

Hill’s own success in the sport was demonstrated by him becoming the 1996 Formula One World Champion. He is one of two sons of a Formula One World Champion to also win the title, along with Nico Rosberg, who won the 2016 championship.

Hill’s story serves as an example of the success that can be found in the world of Formula One, and the possibilities that lie in the hearts of those who race.

6. Jim Clark

Jim_Clark__6

James Clark OBE was one of the most successful British Formula One racing drivers in history. He was from Scotland and won two World Championships, in 1963 and 1965.

He was a versatile driver, competing in a variety of different disciplines, from sports cars to touring cars, and even the Indianapolis 500, which he won in 1965. His career was most closely associated with the Lotus marque, with whom he achieved his greatest successes.

Clark had a great talent for driving and was renowned for his consistent, smooth style. He was also known for his tactical racing ability, being able to judge the race and make decisions that could give him a competitive advantage.

He was seen as an example of how to be successful and stylish in racing and his legacy lives on today, remembered as one of the greats of the sport.

7. Jenson Button

Jenson Alexander Lyons Button MBE is a renowned British racing driver who has had a successful career in Formula One (F1) and Super GT Series. He achieved international recognition in 2009 when he won the Formula One World Championship while driving for the Brawn GP team.

After his successful Formula One career, Jenson Button shifted his focus to Super GT Series and in 2018, he and his teammate Naoki Yamamoto became champions of the season. The two drivers shared a Honda racing car and raced under Team Kunimitsu.

This victory marked the end of an illustrious career for Button and he retired from racing shortly after.

8. Alex Albon

Alexander Albon Ansusinha is a professional racing driver with dual nationality, Thailand and Britain. He is currently competing in the highly competitive Formula One series, driving for the Williams Racing team, and representing Thailand as his racing nation.

Albon has had a successful career in Formula One, having previously competed for the Scuderia Toro Rosso and Red Bull Racing teams. He also had a brief stint in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) Championship with the AF Corse team.

Albon has proven himself to be a talented and successful racing driver, and his current position at the Williams Racing team is testament to this. With his dual nationality, Albon has been able to represent both Thailand and Britain on the international stage.

His commitment to racing has earned him a place in the prestigious Formula One series, and his continued success is sure to bring even more recognition to both Thailand and Britain.

9. Sarah Moore

Sarah Moore is an accomplished British racing driver. In 2009, she achieved a major milestone by winning the Ginetta Junior Championship, solidifying her position as a top competitor in the racing world.

This success was further acknowledged by the British Racing Drivers’ Club, who awarded her the Rising Star status. After her Ginetta win, Sarah continued to race and in 2011 she competed in the InterSteps Championship.

Her impressive career shows her dedication and talent as a racer, making her a notable figure in British motorsports.

10. Guy Gale

Guy Gale was a British racing driver and Major in the British Army. He was born in 1891 and rose to the rank of Major in the British Army during the First World War.

He was a respected member of the British racing community and raced in various events including the British Grand Prix and the Tourist Trophy race.Gale was a successful and competitive driver, often finishing in the top 10 in most races.

He was well-known for his driving skill and was a great asset to the British Army during the war.

He was also known for his good sportsmanship and was a popular figure in the racing community. He was the first British driver to win the coveted Tourist Trophy race in 1921 and was the first British driver to win the British Grand Prix in 1922.

He was a respected and successful driver and was admired by many for his bravery and determination. Gale’s career ended in 1925 when he was killed in an accident at the Boulogne Grand Prix. He was mourned by the British racing community and his legacy remains to this day.

Despite his untimely death, Guy Gale will always be remembered as an inspiring individual who dedicated his life to the sport of racing and the British Army.

11. Mike Parkes

Michael Johnson Parkes was a British racing driver from England. His connection to the automotive industry was deeply rooted as his father, John, was the Chairman of the Alvis Group.

Parkes began his racing career in Formula One, the highest class of single-seater auto racing sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). On July 18, 1959, he made his debut in a World Championship Grand Prix.

Over the course of his career, Parkes participated in seven Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, making a name for himself in the racing world. His career in Formula One was relatively short-lived, but Parkes left an indelible mark in the history of the sport.

He was known for his impressive driving skills and his commitment to the sport. Parkes was an important figure in the development of motorsport in the UK and an inspiration to countless aspiring British drivers.

12. Dan Wheldon

Dan_Wheldon__12

Daniel Clive Wheldon was a British motor racing driver who made a name for himself in the U.S. racing circuit. He was the champion of the 2005 IndyCar Series Drivers’ Championship and was part of the Andretti Green Racing team.

He achieved great success in the Indianapolis 500, winning the race in 2005 and 2011. To cap off his achievements, he was co-winner of the 2006 24 Hours of Daytona, an endurance race, with Chip Ganassi Racing.

Wheldon’s career was marked by a series of successful races and championships. His success reflected his hard work and dedication to the sport of motor racing. He was a respected driver amongst his peers, and his accomplishments were honored in the racing world.

Although Wheldon is no longer with us, his legacy will live on in the motor racing community. He was a great driver who achieved much and will be remembered for his accomplishments on the track.

His life was cut short tragically, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

13. Susie Wolff

Suzanne Wolff MBE is a remarkable woman in the world of racing. She is a Scottish former professional racing driver and is now the managing director of F1 Academy. Wolff’s career began in karting, and she later moved up to competing in Formula Renault and Formula Three.

After this, she made the move to the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters to compete for Mercedes-Benz. This was a huge breakthrough for her, and she went on to have an impressive racing career. Wolff has achieved numerous accomplishments in racing.

She is the first female to race in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters and was the first female to win a race in the series.

She also competed in the DTM Championship and was the first female to be crowned as the DTM Champion. Wolff has also had an impressive career in the world of motorsport outside of racing. She has held several managerial positions, including managing director of F1 Academy.

She is also a member of the British Racing Drivers’ Club and is a patron of the Women in Motorsport Commission. Wolff’s achievements and accomplishments in the world of motorsport have been remarkable.

She has broken boundaries and has become an inspiration to many aspiring female racers around the world. With her experience and expertise in the racing world, she is sure to continue to make a positive impact in the sport.

14. Stirling Moss

Sir Stirling Craufurd Moss OBE was a British Formula One driver who is remembered for his success in the motorsports world. He was an inductee to the International Motorsports Hall of Fame and won 212 of the 529 races he entered in various competitions.

His impressive record earned him the title of “the greatest driver never to win the Formula One World Championship”.Moss began his racing career in 1949. His first race was the Goodwood International Trophy.

He then went on to compete in Formula One, touring cars, and sports cars. His first Formula One win was at the 1955 British Grand Prix. From there, he went on to win a total of 16 Formula One races and was the runner-up in the World Championship four times.

Apart from Formula One, Moss also saw success in other motorsport competitions. He won the prestigious Mille Miglia in 1955 and the RAC Tourist Trophy 10 times, making him the most successful driver in this race.

He was also the first driver to win the Monaco Grand Prix and the Swedish Grand Prix in the same year. Moss’s success in various motorsport competitions has earned him the title of “the greatest driver never to win the Formula One World Championship”.

Despite his impressive record, he never managed to become World Champion. Despite this, he is still remembered as one of the greatest drivers of all time and an inductee into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.

15. David Coulthard

David Marshall Coulthard is a British racing driver from Scotland who has had a long and successful career. He began his career in 1994, competing in Formula One for fifteen seasons until 2008.

Throughout his time in Formula One, Coulthard achieved many successes, including thirteen Grand Prix victories and a total of sixty-two podium finishes.

His success earned him the nickname ‘DC’, as well as the title of Member of the British Empire. After his time in Formula One, Coulthard moved into broadcasting and journalism.

He worked as a presenter, commentator, and journalist, providing his expertise and knowledge of Formula One and motorsport.

His career in broadcasting and journalism was just as successful as it had been in racing, and he was a popular and respected figure in the motorsport industry. Coulthard’s legacy as a racing driver will continue to be remembered.

He is an inspirational figure for many in the world of motorsport and his career has been a testament to his dedication and hard work. He is a pioneer in the industry and his accomplishments will continue to be remembered for many years to come.

16. Mike Hawthorn

John Michael Hawthorn was a successful British racing driver who achieved much success in his career. He was the first driver from the United Kingdom to become a Formula One World Champion, winning the championship title in 1958.

His success in the sport was cut short, however, due to a tragedy. In 1958, Hawthorn’s teammate and friend, Peter Collins, died in an accident at the German Grand Prix.

The news of this tragedy profoundly affected Hawthorn and he decided to retire from racing shortly after winning the championship. It is said that the death of Collins weighed heavily on Hawthorn and he wanted to honour his friend’s memory by retiring from the sport.

Hawthorn’s legacy, however, lives on in the racing world. He is remembered for his success on the track and his willingness to retire in the face of tragedy.

His actions are a reminder of the importance of honouring the people we have lost and the impact they have had on our lives.

17. John Surtees

John_Surtees__17

John Norman Surtees, CBE was an acclaimed British racer who was successful in both Grand Prix motorcycle road racing and Formula One racing. He is well-known for his incredible achievements, becoming the seven-time Grand Prix motorcycle World Champion.

His first title was won in 1956, beginning an impressive streak of success in motorcycle racing.

Over the next nine years, Surtees would dominate the sport, winning an additional six titles and setting numerous records. Aside from his accomplishments in motorcycle racing, Surtees also had success in Formula One racing, becoming the only driver to win world championships on both two and four wheels.

He made his Formula One debut in 1960 and won the 1964 championship, becoming the first Englishman to do so.

In total, he competed in 92 Formula One races, recording six wins, four pole positions, and 11 podium finishes. Surtees’ feats in motorsport have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. In 2008, he was awarded a CBE in recognition of his services to motorsport.

He was also inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999 and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2010. His accomplishments continue to be celebrated today, with his legacy living on in the sport of motorsport.

18. Johnny Herbert

John Paul “Johnny” Herbert is a British former racing driver who was prominent in the sport of Formula One from 1989 to 2000. His impressive career included seven teams, three wins, and a 4th place finish in the 1995 World Drivers’ Championship.

In addition to his success in the racing world, Herbert is also a former television pundit for Sky Sports F1. Herbert was born in 1965 in Romford, Essex, and began racing at a young age, competing in various junior racing series before breaking into Formula One in 1989.

During his eleven year career in Formula One, Herbert raced for seven different teams, including Benetton, Sauber, Tyrrell, and Stewart.

While driving for these teams, Herbert had three race victories: The British Grand Prix in 1995, the Italian Grand Prix in 1999, and the European Grand Prix in 1999.

Additionally, Herbert finished fourth in the 1995 World Drivers’ Championship, an impressive feat for a driver in the prestigious Formula One circuit. After retiring from Formula One in 2000, Herbert moved on to other racing series, such as the Le Mans and NASCAR.

He also became involved in television, serving as a pundit for Sky Sports F1. In this role, Herbert provided insight and commentary on the Formula One race events.

Overall, John Paul “Johnny” Herbert is a British former racing driver who accomplished many great things during his Formula One career. He raced for seven different teams, won three races, and even placed fourth in the 1995 World Drivers’ Championship.

After retiring from Formula One, Herbert moved on to other racing series and also became a television pundit for Sky Sports F1.

19. Tony Brooks

Charles Anthony Standish Brooks, commonly known as the “Racing Dentist”, was a British racing driver who made his mark in Formula One World Championship Grands Prix.

He first participated in a Grand Prix race on July 14, 1956, and went on to compete in a total of 39 Grand Prix events.

Brooks was highly successful in his racing career, as he was able to secure a total of six wins, ten podium finishes, and 75 points throughout the course of his time as a Formula One driver.

In addition to his impressive race record, Brooks was also known for his unique nickname. By day, he was a practicing dentist, but by night, he was a competitive racing driver.

This combination of professions allowed him to have an incredibly varied life, and as a result, he was able to become an inspirational figure in the world of motorsports.

Brooks’ legacy as the “Racing Dentist” is still remembered today, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of pursuing one’s passions.

His career was a testament to the fact that with hard work and dedication, it is possible to achieve great things, no matter what the field of endeavor.

20. Lando Norris

Lando Norris is a renowned racing driver who competes in Formula One with McLaren. He hails from both Britain and Belgium and races under the British flag.

Norris has enjoyed a distinguished career so far, becoming the champion of MSA Formula in 2015 and then winning the Toyota Racing Series, Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 and Formula Renault 2.0 Northern European Cup in 2016.

These successes have established him as one of the top drivers in the world. He is continuing to develop his skills and climb the ranks of Formula One, aiming to become one of the best in the sport.

21. Jamie Chadwick

Jamie Chadwick is an impressive British racing driver who has made an impact in the world of motorsports. She competes for Andretti Autosport in Indy NXT and is the reigning champion of the W Series.

She has won the W Series twice, in 2019 and 2021-2022, becoming the first driver to win the W Series two times. Her impressive accomplishments don’t end there; she also holds the records for the most wins, podiums, pole positions, and points in the W Series.

This is a remarkable feat considering the W Series is a relatively new racing league, and Jamie Chadwick has been able to dominate in the short time since its inception.

She has consistently proven her talent in the field of motorsports and is an inspiration to aspiring female racers around the world. With her accomplishments, she has proven that anyone can achieve their dreams with hard work and dedication.

22. George Russell

George William Russell is an accomplished British racing driver. He is currently competing in Formula One for Mercedes, one of the most successful teams in the sport. Prior to joining Mercedes, Russell raced for Williams from 2019 to 2021.

During this time, he was able to demonstrate his driving ability and skill, becoming one of the most highly regarded drivers in the sport. He has since been able to translate his success into a move to Mercedes, a team that has dominated Formula One in recent years.

Russell has earned the respect of both fans and fellow drivers alike, and he is now seen as one of the top drivers in the sport. With his move to Mercedes, Russell has the opportunity to continue to demonstrate his skill and compete at the highest level.

23. David Purley

David Charles Purley, GM was a British racing driver born in Bognor Regis, West Sussex in 1945. He was an active participant in the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, starting his racing career in 1973 at the Monaco Grand Prix.

He was the first driver to win a Grand Prix in a car with a turbocharger. Purley was also known for his bravery, as he pulled fellow driver Roger Williamson from his burning March 731 on the Zandvoort circuit in 1973.

Purley was revered for his never-give-up attitude and was awarded the George Medal in 1974 for his heroic actions during the race.

Although he only participated in eleven Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, Purley’s legacy as a brave and determined driver remains to this day. He was posthumously inducted into the Motor Sport Hall of Fame in 2017, in recognition of his impressive career.

24. Alex Lloyd

Alex_Lloyd_(racing_driver)__24

Alex Stewart Lloyd is a former British motor racing driver who is now retired. He was born in England and has been involved in the sport since the 1990s.

He enjoyed success in the British Touring Car Championship, the British Formula Three Championship, and the British Formula Renault Championship. In the BTCC, Alex won the championship in 1995 and finished third in 1996.

He also won the Formula Three title in 1999 and the Formula Renault championship in 2000.In addition to his success in the UK, Alex also competed in several international championships.

He took part in the World Touring Car Championship in 2000 and 2001, the International Formula 3000 Championship in 2001, and the Formula Nippon Championship in 2003.

After his retirement in 2004, Alex became a team manager for the BTCC’s Team Dynamics team, a role he held until the end of the 2007 season.Alex Stewart Lloyd is widely regarded as one of the best British motor racing drivers of his generation.

He was known for his skill in the cockpit as well as his dedication to the sport. His achievements on the track earned him recognition from the British Motorsport Hall of Fame, where he was inducted in 2009.

25. James Scott Douglas

Sir James Louis Fitzroy Scott Douglas, 6th Baronet was a remarkable figure in the world of racing and British aristocracy. Born in 1871, he was the son and heir of Sir Charles William Blane Douglas, the 5th Baronet of Glenbervie.

From an early age, Douglas was immersed in the world of sports and racing, as his father was an avid horse and carriage racer.

His father even won the 1887 Grand National Steeplechase at Aintree. Douglas inherited his father’s title and wealth at the age of 20, and soon after began racing himself. He raced all over England and Scotland and quickly rose to fame in the racing world.

He eventually became a member of the Automobile Club of Great Britain and Ireland and raced in a variety of events throughout his career. In addition to racing, Douglas also served in the British Army during the Boer War and in World War I.

In recognition for his service and bravery, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order in 1915. Douglas’s racing career came to an end in 1921 when he was injured during a race in Scotland, but he continued to be involved in the racing world.

He served as president of the Scottish Automobile Club and was a member of the Royal Automobile Club and the Royal Scottish Automobile Club. Douglas passed away in 1936 at the age of 65, and his title and wealth passed on to his son, John, the 7th Baronet of Glenbervie.

Sir James Louis Fitzroy Scott Douglas, 6th Baronet was a true pioneer in the world of racing and British aristocracy. He lived a remarkable life, and his legacy continues to be remembered today.

26. Michael Wainwright

Michael_Wainwright_(racing_driver)__26

Michael Stuart Wainwright is a highly accomplished British professional racing driver and businessman.

He is currently competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship for GR Racing and has been for the past several years. Wainwright has established himself as a leader in the sport, successfully competing at some of the most prestigious and challenging racing circuits in the world.

He has been a consistent frontrunner in the FIA World Endurance Championship, regularly competing for top positions and achieving multiple podium finishes. Off the track, Wainwright has forged a successful career in business.

He is the founder and CEO of a range of companies, ranging from automotive industry-related businesses to property development and investment. Overall, Michael Stuart Wainwright is an exceptional individual who has achieved great success in both the world of racing and business.

He is an inspiration to many and is well on his way to becoming a legend in the sport.

27. Dave Coyne

David Coyne is a British racing driver who began his career in Formula Ford. In 1980, at the age of 22, he finished 5th in the Formula Ford Festival, a prestigious event that showcases the talents of up and coming drivers.

This result was a strong indication of his potential and the following year he moved up to the British Formula Three Championship. Despite competing in only three races, he still managed to place 20th in the championship standings.

This was an impressive achievement and demonstrated that Coyne was a driver of considerable talent. He continued to race in Formula Three for the next few years, but unfortunately never quite achieved the same level of success as he had in the Festival.

Nevertheless, his career serves as an inspiration to aspiring racers and is a testament to the potential of young drivers.

28. Alessandro Latif

Alessandro_Latif__28

Alessandro Guido Latif is an impressive and accomplished race car driver from Britain and Italy. He is the youngest racer to ever win a V de V Proto Endurance Challenge race, which is an impressive feat.

In 2014, Latif was given the opportunity to compete in the Blancpain Sprint Series, driving for the Phoenix Racing team, as well as the Daytona 24 Hours and Sebring 12 Hours driving an Audi R8 LMS for Flying Lizard Motorsports.

This opportunity allowed Latif to compete in a number of prestigious races, furthering his already impressive career. Latif is an example of a successful driver, having achieved a number of impressive feats in his young career.

29. Michael Mallock

Michael_Mallock__29

Michael Raymond Mallock is a professional racing driver hailing from Northampton, England. His roots in the sport run deep, as his father Ray Mallock and grandfather Arthur Mallock were both professional racers.

Michael has been following in their footsteps and has now carved out a successful career of his own, competing in the GT4 European Cup.

This prestigious series sees racers from all over Europe competing in a variety of races, and Michael has proven himself to be a formidable competitor.

He has been able to use his family’s experience and expertise to his advantage, and his success in the GT4 European Cup is a testament to his talent and dedication.

30. Menasheh Idafar

Menasheh Idafar is a talented racing driver who holds dual citizenship in both Britain and Bahrain. He has made a name for himself in the racing world, becoming the 2010 champion of the British Formula 3 Championship’s National Class.

Beyond his success in the racing world, Menasheh is part of a small but unique community in Bahrain; he is part of the Jewish community in the region.

This community has been around for centuries, and Menasheh is a shining example of how this community continues to thrive and develop. He is a symbol of resilience and progress in the face of adversity and is an inspiration to the Jewish people of Bahrain.

Through his success in the racing world, Menasheh is showing the world that the Bahraini Jewish community is full of capable and talented individuals.

31. Nick Adams

Nick Adams is a former British racing driver who gained notoriety in the racing world for his success in Formula Atlantic competition. He started off racing part-time in the World Sportscar Championship in 1985 and continued to compete in this competition until 1992.

His most notable achievement was his debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1989, when he drove Chamberlain Engineering’s Spice SE89C. This experience allowed him to gain valuable knowledge and experience, which he used to further his success in the racing world.

During his career, Adams raced in many of the most prestigious international races, including the World Endurance Championship and the FIA GT Championship. His passion for the sport and his natural talent have made him one of the most successful British drivers of all time.

32. Peter Collins

Peter John Collins was a British racing driver who was highly successful in his career. He began racing at the young age of 17 in 1949, and quickly made an impression by finishing third in the 1951 Autosport National Formula 3 Championship.

His success continued to rise, and in 1958 he won the RAC British Grand Prix. Tragically, just weeks after this victory, he was killed in the German Grand Prix. His death was a significant loss for the world of motor racing, and his legacy lives on to this day.

33. Derek Bell

Derek Reginald Bell MBE is an esteemed British racing driver. He has achieved a great deal of success in sportscar racing, having won the Le Mans 24 hours five times, the Daytona 24 three times and the World Sportscar Championship twice.

His impressive career has also seen him race in Formula One for several notable teams, including Ferrari, Wheatcroft, McLaren, Surtees and Tecno.

Bell’s impressive track record has earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the most successful and respected drivers in the world. He is a true master of his craft, and his legacy is one that will never be forgotten.

34. Martin Brundle

Martin John Brundle is a renowned British former racing driver, who has made a name for himself in the world of motor racing. He is best known for his successful career as a Formula One driver, having raced for teams like Tyrrell, Benetton, Ligier and others.

He also had a successful career as a commentator for ITV Sport from 1997 to 2008, the BBC from 2009 to 2011, and Sky Sports since 2012.

During his time as a commentator, he has provided insightful and entertaining commentary on various motor racing events, including the Formula One World Championship. Brundle’s racing career began in 1981 when he made his Formula Ford debut.

He continued to race in the lower formulas and made his Formula One debut in 1984 with Tyrrell. As a Formula One driver, he achieved a podium finish in both the 1986 and 1987 seasons.

He was also part of the Benetton team from 1989 to 1991, before moving on to Ligier, where he spent the 1992 season. After retiring from racing in 1996, Brundle began his career as a commentator.

His career as a commentator began with ITV Sport in 1997 and he stayed with the channel up until 2008. From 2009 to 2011, he was part of the BBC team, before making the switch to Sky Sports in 2012.

Throughout his career, Martin John Brundle has established himself as one of the most respected and well-known figures in the motor racing world. His experience as a driver and a commentator is unparalleled, and he continues to be an integral part of motor racing to this day.

35. Eddie Irvine

Edmund Irvine Jr. was a racing driver from Northern Ireland. He made his Formula One debut in 1993 and his career in the sport spanned nine years until 2002. During this period, he was highly successful, becoming runner-up in the 1999 World Drivers’ Championship.

This championship is highly prestigious and is awarded to the Formula One driver who accumulates the most points over the course of the season. In 1999, Irvine was driving for Scuderia Ferrari, an Italian Formula One team that has a long and distinguished history in the sport.

This made his runner-up finish in the championship all the more impressive. Irvine was a highly skilled driver and he was widely regarded as one of the best in his era.

He achieved many successes during his career, including numerous podium finishes and a victory at the 1999 British Grand Prix. He was also well-liked by his peers and was respected for his dedication and determination.

Despite his successes, his career in Formula One was cut short in 2002 due to a lack of funds and sponsorship. Edmund Irvine Jr. remains a popular figure in Formula One and is remembered fondly by many fans of the sport.

His accomplishments in the sport are a testament to his skill and determination, and he is an inspiration to aspiring racers everywhere.

36. David Hobbs

David Wishart Hobbs is a British former racing driver who is highly respected in the world of motorsport. His accomplishments in the sport have earned him a spot on the FIA list of graded drivers, a select group of 27 people who are considered the best in the world.

Hobbs has also had a successful career as a commentator, having worked for CBS from the mid 1970s to 1996, Speed from 1996 to 2012 and NBC from 2013 to 2017.

He is well-known for his expertise and experience in the world of racing, which has been invaluable to some of the best racing teams in the world. He has helped guide some of the most successful drivers and teams, and his knowledge and insight have been invaluable to the sport.

His familiarity with the sport has helped keep it relevant and exciting for fans all over the world.

37. Mark Blundell

Mark Blundell is a highly accomplished British racing driver who has competed in multiple motorsport disciplines. He first made his mark in Formula One, taking part in the sport for four seasons starting in 1991. After this, he moved onto sports cars and the CART series.

In 1992 he achieved a huge success in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, claiming the victory and cementing his reputation as one of Britain’s best drivers.

Following his retirement from racing, Blundell became a presenter for the British broadcaster ITV, covering Formula One until the end of the 2008 season. During this time, he became well-known for his insight and analysis of the sport.

When the TV broadcasting rights changed to the BBC in 2009, Blundell moved away from Formula One to focus on other interests.

38. Jonathan Palmer

Jonathan Charles Palmer is a highly accomplished British businessman and former Formula One racing driver. His career in motor racing was preceded by a period of study and work in medical practice.

Palmer trained as a physician at Guy’s Hospital in London, one of the most prestigious medical schools in the UK. After completing his training, he worked as a junior physician in two hospitals: Cuckfield and Brighton.

His experience in the medical profession provided him with a valuable set of skills that would serve him well in his future career. Palmer’s decision to pursue a career in motor racing was one that would prove to be highly successful.

His racing career spanned over a decade and included several prestigious wins. He competed in over 100 races and achieved podium finishes in almost half. He also served as a consultant for various teams and manufacturers.

His experience and expertise in the world of motor racing was highly sought after. Palmer’s career in motor racing has been highly successful. His career achievements have been celebrated both in the racing world and beyond.

His success in the sport has opened many doors for him in the business world. He is now an established businessman with an impressive portfolio.

His wealth of experience and knowledge has enabled him to pursue a highly successful career in business, and he is now one of the most influential figures in the British business world.

39. Divina Galica

Divina Mary Galica MBE is a remarkable British sportswoman. She is an example of a woman who has achieved great success in two completely different sports: skiing and motorsport.

Her accomplishments in skiing include competing in four Winter Olympics and captaining the British Women’s Olympic Ski Team in 1968 and 1972.

She also achieved success in motorsport, entering three Formula One World Championship Grands Prix. Galica was a pioneering figure in the world of female skiing.

She was the first British woman to compete in the Winter Olympics, and she was the first woman to compete in the men’s downhill event. Her efforts in the Olympics helped to pave the way for other female skiers. Galica’s motorsport career was also impressive.

She was the first woman to race in the prestigious Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, and she was the first female driver to receive a Formula One Superlicence. Galica’s achievements in both skiing and motorsport have been recognised by the British Government, who awarded her with an MBE in 2000.

Her commitment to both sports has been inspirational and she has achieved a great deal in her life. She is a role model for all aspiring female athletes, demonstrating how it is possible to be successful in more than one sport.

40. Katherine Legge

Katherine Anne Legge is an accomplished auto racing driver from the United Kingdom. She currently competes full-time in the IMSA SportsCar Championship, driving the No. 66 Acura NSX GT3 for Gradient Racing.

In addition to her full-time duties, she also competes part-time in the IndyCar Series. Legge has had a successful career in motorsports, having won multiple championships and competed in various series around the world.

She has also been a podium finisher in both the IMSA and IndyCar Series and has proven to be a competitive and successful driver. Legge has also been involved in the development of a number of racing series and is a respected member of the racing community.

She is an inspiration to many and continues to be a trailblazer in the world of auto racing.

41. Cliff Allison

Henry Clifford Allison was a British racing driver who achieved success in the sport of Formula One during the 1958-1961 seasons.

He drove for Lotus, Scuderia Centro Sud, Ferrari and UDT Laystall teams, and was highly regarded as a driver. Henry was born in Brough, Westmorland, and it is where he spent his life.

He had a great passion for racing, and his determination and skill enabled him to compete in some of the most prestigious events in Formula One.

During his time in the sport, he achieved numerous victories and podium finishes. Henry was a popular figure in the racing community, and his achievements were remembered long after his death in Brough in 1961.

His legacy still lives on today, and his name is still spoken in reverence by many who follow the sport. He was a true pioneer who paved the way for future generations of drivers to follow in his footsteps.

42. Ken Miles

Ken_Miles__42

Kenneth Henry Jarvis Miles was an esteemed British sports car racing engineer and driver. He is renowned for his motorsport career in the United States and with American teams during international competitions.

His passion for racing and engineering has earned him a place in the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, an honor reserved for the most accomplished racers and engineers in the sport. Miles was born in England and began his long and successful career by participating in sports car racing in the late 1950s.

He quickly made a name for himself as one of the most talented engineers and drivers in the sport. His expertise and success on the track led him to become a sought-after member of American racing teams.

Miles’ skill was quickly recognized in the US and abroad, as he participated in several international competitions, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the World Championship of Makes. In addition to his racing career, Miles was also an accomplished engineer.

He developed a number of innovative designs and modifications to racing cars that provided improved performance and safety. He also wrote several books on racing and engineering, helping to educate and inspire a new generation of racers.

Miles’ incredible success and contribution to motorsports has been acknowledged by the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, which inducted him in its esteemed ranks. This is a tremendous honor bestowed upon those who have achieved the highest levels of excellence in the sport.

His legacy lives on, inspiring others to pursue their passion for racing and engineering.

43. Tiff Needell

Timothy Richard “Tiff” Needell is a professional racing driver and television presenter from the United Kingdom. He is best known for his appearances on the popular BBC series Top Gear and later Fifth Gear.

Needell has been a presenter of Lovecars since its launch in 2015. Needell’s career in motorsport began in the early 1980s when he competed in various local and regional races.

During the mid-1980s, he was signed by Nissan Motorsports and competed in the World Sportscar Championship.

Needell continued to compete in different racing series throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including the European Touring Car Championship and the British Touring Car Championship.In addition to his racing career, Needell has also had a long-standing career in television.

In 1988, he became one of the co-hosts of Top Gear. He remained a co-host until the show’s cancellation in 2001.

Needell went on to become a regular presenter of Fifth Gear, a motoring television show produced by the same team as Top Gear. Most recently, Needell has become the presenter of Lovecars, a car review show on YouTube.

The show is focused on giving viewers an insider’s look at the world of cars with a combination of reviews and interviews.

Needell also regularly posts car-related content on his Twitter and Instagram accounts. All in all, Timothy Richard “Tiff” Needell is an accomplished British racing driver and television presenter.

His contributions to the world of motorsport and television are wide-reaching, making him a recognizable and popular figure in the car industry.

44. Abbie Eaton

Abbie_Eaton__44

Abigail Eaton is a talented racing driver from the East Riding of Yorkshire, England. She is particularly notable for her involvement with the popular Amazon Prime Video series, The Grand Tour.

Eaton was the test driver for both the second and third series of the show, proving her skill and expertise behind the wheel. In addition to her on-screen endeavors, Eaton is an experienced racing instructor and a performance driving coach.

This demonstrates her deep knowledge of the sport, as well as her passion for helping others.

She has a great deal of experience in the industry and is well-respected by her peers. Eaton’s success and achievements have been recognized on a global scale, and she has become an inspiration to many aspiring racers.

She is an excellent example of what can be achieved when one has dedication and passion for their chosen career. Her dedication to the sport, as well as her teaching and coaching abilities, have allowed her to become a leader in the racing world.

45. Sam Bird

Sam_Bird__45

Sam Jamie Bird is an accomplished British professional racing driver who currently competes in Formula E for NEOM McLaren. Bird has had a successful racing career, having won the LMP2 title at the 2015 FIA World Endurance Championship.

Additionally, Bird was runner-up in two prestigious series – the GP2 Series in 2013, and the LMGTE Pro class at the 2016 FIA World Endurance Championship. This is a testament to Bird’s talent and commitment to excellence in the sport of racing.

Bird has also been part of several other successful racing teams, including Mercedes-Benz in the DTM series, as well as Ferrari in the GTE Pro class.

Bird is a dedicated and determined driver, and his successes have proven that he is more than capable of competing at the highest level.

Conclusion

The UK has some of the best auto racing players in the world. From Formula One and Rally drivers to Touring Car and Endurance racers, the UK has a wide range of talent to choose from.

The UK’s auto racing players have always been at the forefront of the sport and with the emergence of new teams and circuits they are sure to continue to be a force to be reckoned with.

With the wealth of talent and experience that the UK has to offer, it is no wonder that the UK is one of the top destinations for auto racing in the world.

Photo of author

Rob Bunker

I am a professional race car driver at Rob Bunker Racing. I have been racing for more than 10 years and I love what I do. I came from a family of racers and was born in an area that has been known for its motorsports history. After high school, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a race car driver and pursued it with all my might. I began racing in 2005 and have since raced in many different series like the USA Racing Pro Cup, Indy Lights, IndyCar Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, ARCA Racing Series. LinkedIn