Stars of motorsport pay tribute to legend who inspired them

LEADING figures from the world of motorsport led the tributes to Dan Wheldon, with some of the biggest names in Formula 1 revealing how he had been an inspiration.

McLaren driver Lewis Hamilton said: “Dan was a racer I’d followed throughout my career, as I often followed in his footsteps as we climbed the motorsport ladder in the UK.

“He was an extremely talented driver. As a British guy who not only went over to the States but who twice won the Indy 500, he was an inspirational guy, and someone that every racing driver looked up to with respect and admiration.

“This is a tragic loss at such a young age. My heart goes out to his family and friends.”

Fellow McLaren F1 driver Jenson Button said: “I have so many good memories of racing with Dan in the early 1990s – a true fighter. We’ve lost a legend in our sport but also a great guy.

“I can’t begin to imagine what his family are going through and my thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.”

Red Bull driver Mark Webber tweeted: “Rest in Peace Dan. I remember our early days in the UK 95/96. Miss ya.”

Also offering his condolences, Derek Warwick, president of the British Racing Drivers’ Club, said: “Two victories in the Indy 500 put him in a very select group of drivers.

“Dan was a true professional and a great ambassador for the sport.

“He was highly focused in the way he approached his racing and a real perfectionist.”