Paddy Hopkirk dead at 89: Tributes paid to motorsport legend best known for winning 1964 Monte Carlo Rally
MOTORSPORT legend Paddy Hopkirk has died at the age of 89.
The British racing icon, most famous for his 1964 Monte Carlo Rally win, has “passed away peacefully” on Thursday, a family statement revealed.
The husband, father, grandfather and motorsport legend died at at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Buckinghamshire, leaving his loved-ones heartbroken.
Hopkirk is survived by wife Jenny and three children – Katie, Patrick and William – as well as his six grandchildren.
A statement released by Hopkirk’s family on Friday read: “First and foremost, Paddy was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
“His passing will leave a huge hole in the lives of those closest to him.
“But Paddy also leaves an incredible legacy of motorsport and business success.
“His hard work in support of the British motorsport and wider car industry continued until his final days.
“His family, friends and fans will never forget his sharp wit and wicked smile.
“He brought fun and joy to anyone in his company and inspired many.”
Most read in Motorsport
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland in April 1933, Hopkirk would go on to become one of Britain’s top rally drivers of all time.
He most-famously stormed to the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally win in his Mini Cooper S.
MORE TO FOLLOW…
THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY…
The Sun is your go to destination for the best celebrity news, football news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.
Download our fantastic, new and improved free App for the best ever Sun Online experience. For iPhone click here, for Android click here.
Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheSun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.