'Voice of Formula One' Murray Walker dies aged 97

Walker's broadcasting career spanned more than 50 years

Murray Walker, the voice of Formula One, has died aged 97, the British Racing Drivers' Club revealed. PA

Murray Walker holding up his OBE during an investiture with the Queen at Buckingham Palace. PA

Murray Walker during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone Circuit in 2011. PA

Murray Walker arriving for BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2007 awards.PA

Commentator Murray Walker, right, and Jackie Stewart after receiving a special award for his contribution to British Television at the British Academy Television Awards in 2002. PA

Murray Walker, the voice of Formula One, has died aged 97.

Walker, whose broadcasting career spanned more than 50 years, worked for the BBC and ITV, before he retired from commentating in 2001.

The British Racing Drivers' Club said in a statement: "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 nation's favourite commentator and a contagious smile.

"We thank Murray for all he has done for our community. RIP our friend."

Martin Brundle, who commentated alongside Walker in the final years of his career, led the tributes on social media.

Writing on Twitter, Brundle said: "Rest In Peace, Murray Walker.

"Wonderful man in every respect. National treasure, communication genius, Formula One legend."

Formula One tweeted: "We are immensely sad to hear that Murray Walker has passed away.

"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."

Former England footballer Gary Linekar said he was a “true broadcasting great”.

“Saddened to hear that Murray Walker has passed away,” he tweeted.

“A true broadcasting great and very much the voice of Formula1 for decades. The chequered flag may have been waved for the final time but he’ll always be remembered. RIP Murray.”

Williams Racing also joined the tributes.

“We are truly saddened to hear of Murray Walker’s passing,” Williams Racing team tweeted.

“Murray was the voice of F1 for so many, and provided unforgettable commentary on many of this team’s most iconic moments.

“His passion for the sport was infectious, and never failed to make people smile.”