Former Arrows boss Walkinshaw dies
Tom Walkinshaw was head of Arrows between 1996 and 2002 © Getty Images
Former Arrows team boss Tom Walkinshaw has died at the age of 64 after a long battle with cancer.
After enjoying success with touring cars and Le Mans racing, he joined Benetton in 1991 as engineering director.
He was responsible for introducing Ross Brawn to the sport after he brought his sports car designer with him from Jaguar to Benetton. He was also instrumental in luring Michael Schumacher to Benetton from Jordan.
He moved to Ligier in 1995 before acquiring a majority stake in the Arrows team. He convinced out-of-contract world champion Damon Hill to join, despite interest from bigger teams.
After failing to win a single race in 382 attempts, Arrows eventually folded in 2002, ending Walkinshaw's involvement in Formula One.
A former chairman of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), Walkinshaw remained involved in motorsport, notably in Australia's V8 Supercar championship, as well as becoming the chairman of Gloucester Rugby Club.
Former Le Mans and F1 driver Mark Blundell paid his respects on his Twitter page: "Just heard that Tom Walkinshaw passed away today, great loss to the world of motorsport, good driver and team owner, RIP."
Credit: ESPN F1 (espn.com)
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