On Wednesday, the automotive community gathered to pay tribute to a legendary driver who sadly passed away in April 2020 at the age of 90. This event, which was attended by approximately 2,000 guests, could not have taken place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Three-time Formula 1 world champion Jackie Stewart expressed his admiration for the driver, who is widely considered the greatest driver to never win a title. Stewart, now 84, praised the driver’s skills on the track, as well as his impeccable presentation and style. He described him as an extraordinary individual who was beloved by all throughout the history of the sport.
Among those present were notable figures such as Juan Manuel Fangio’s son, Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, Lewis Hamilton’s father Anthony, Ross Brawn, and Christian Horner. The Mercedes car that Moss drove to victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia was proudly displayed outside the abbey.
During the service, Stewart shared a personal anecdote about his encounter with Moss when he was a child. He proudly displayed an autograph he had obtained from the legendary driver. Stewart also recounted a funny incident when he was stopped for speeding by a London police officer, who jokingly asked if he thought he was Stirling Moss. At the time, Stewart had just won the world championship.
Moss’s son, Elliot, read an emotional letter written by his father. In the letter, Moss reflected on the sacrifices he had made throughout his professional racing career, which came to an end in 1962 after a serious accident. Despite the challenges he faced, Moss had no regrets and encouraged others to be prepared to pay the price for their ambitions.
The event was a fitting tribute to a remarkable driver whose legacy will be remembered forever in the world of motorsport. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin)