Broadcasting legend Murray Walker passes away

The motorsport world is mourning the loss of legendary commentator and broadcaster Murray Walker, who has died at the age of 97.

Walker was known to audiences across the globe as the voice of Formula 1, having called the action on both the BBC and ITV from 1976 through to 2001.

During his time with the BBC, Walker was also the man who commentated on the British Touring Car Championship’s Super Touring era for a large part of the 1990s, with his voice beamed into millions of homes on a Saturday afternoon during Grandstand.

His infectious commentary will forever sit alongside some of the most iconic moments in series history, such as the clash between Steve Soper and John Cleland during the 1992 season finale at Silverstone, and the moment when team-mates Julian Bailey and Will Hoy collided at the same venue a year later – leaving Walker to exclaim that ‘the car upside down is a Toyota’.

Even after his time in the commentary box was at an end, Walker would visit the touring car paddock a number of times through the years, where his enthusiasm for the sport remained as great as ever.

“It’s with great sadness we share the news of the passing of BRDC Associate Member Murray Walker OBE,” a statement issued by the BRDC read.

“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.”

The whole team at TouringCarTimes extends its deepest sympathies to Walker’s family and friends.