LEGENDARY Formula One commentator Murray Walker has died aged 97, the British Racing Drivers’ Club has announced. Walker, whose broadcasting career spanned more than 50 years, worked for the UK’s biggest channels, before he retired from commentating in 2001. The Brit was THE voice of motorsport and headed up the UK’s F1 coverage from 1976 […]
LEGENDARY Formula One commentator Murray Walker has died aged 97, the British Racing Drivers’ Club has announced.
Walker, whose broadcasting career spanned more than 50 years, worked for the UK’s biggest channels, before he retired from commentating in 2001.
The Brit was THE voice of motorsport and headed up the UK’s F1 coverage from 1976 until 2001.
He worked for the BBC between 1976 and 1996, before continuing his role at ITV between 1997 and 2001.
Much-loved Murray was “the voice that epitomised the sport we love”, Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle said.
The British Racing Drivers Club announcement read: “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.
“We thank Murray for all he has done for our community. RIP our friend.”
Walker enjoyed an illustrious broadcasting career over half of a century and was admired for his enthusiasm and authenticity while on air.
His comedic remarks during races even gained their own nickname – ‘Murrayisms’ – from his adoring fans.
He once hilariously exclaimed: “There’s nothing wrong with the car… except that it’s on fire!”
Yet he was also poignant with his proclamations – such as the now solemn statement: “With half the race gone, there is half the race still to go.”
Walker’s winning catchphrase, “Unless I’m very much mistaken — and I AM very much mistaken!” leads a barrage of quotes that made himself so likeable.
British presenter Jake Humphrey explained he had spoken to Walker just weeks before his death.
“Just weeks ago I spoke to Murray Walker on the phone. He was in a residential home, hating getting older.
“However, I could hear the sparkle and pride in his voice when we spoke about @LewisHamilton’s 7th title. Murray set the standard. I’m honoured to call him a friend. RIP.”
Formula One tweeted their condolences for the pioneering presenter, writing: “We are immensely sad to hear that Murray Walker has passed away.
National treasure, communication genius, Formula One legend.
“His passion and love of the sport inspired millions of fans around the world. He will forever be a part of our history, and will be dearly missed.”
He retired after the 2001 United States Grand Prix, but returned to television for brief appearances in recent year
Murray’s F1 co-commentator Martin Brundle paid tribute to the late legend, dubbing him a “national treasure”.
He wrote, “Rest in Peace Murray Walker. Wonderful man in every respect. National treasure, communication genius, Formula One legend.”
Walker completed active service in World War II and then went on to enjoy a successful career in advertising – he even headed the team which came up with “a Mars a day helps you work rest and play” slogan.
Murray Walker could make ANYTHING exciting with his eccentric commentary style. This is one of my favourites – snooker! "He's missed it, he's missed it, FANTASTIC!!" pic.twitter.com/KQcg5iqN2A
— Paul McGinnes(@PaulMcG92) March 13, 2021
He also is credited with coining the “Opal Fruits: made to make your mouth water” marketing tagline.
Walker’s F1 role was inspired by his father’s work as a dispatch rider and works motorcyclist for for Rudge, Sunbeam and Norton.
In an interview with the Guardian in 2007, he said: “I was in a tank regiment during the war.
“When I came out I had delusions of grandeur that I would be able to show my father how a motorcycle should really be raced.
“I was all right, but I wasn’t good enough to satisfy myself because I had started in business and I was doing fairly well.
“I obviously wasn’t committed because the business won the day and the hobby didn’t because I think I knew in my heart of hearts that I wouldn’t be top man.”
Walker wangled an opportunity for his first commentary gig at the 1949 British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
He memorably remarked, “Anything happens in Grand Prix racing, and it usually does.”
Silverstone’s Director Pringle described him as,”Knowledgeable beyond words and with a passion that occasionally got the better of him in commentary, he brought the sport and some of its greatest moments to life in a way that ensured they remained seared in our memories for ever.”
