Phil Hill

Biography

Phil Hill (April 20, 1927 – August 28, 2008) was an American racing driver who became the first U.S.-born driver to win the Formula 1 World Championship, achieving the title in 1961. Born in Miami, Florida, and raised in Santa Monica, California, Hill began his racing career in sports cars and endurance events. Known for his calm and methodical approach, he quickly established himself as a talented and reliable driver. Hill joined Ferrari's Formula 1 team in 1958 and, after several strong seasons, won the championship in 1961. His victory came in a bittersweet season marked by fierce competition and the tragic death of his teammate, Wolfgang von Trips, at the Italian Grand Prix. Alongside his F1 success, Hill was a highly accomplished endurance racer, with three victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and wins at the 12 Hours of Sebring. After retiring from racing in the mid-1960s, Hill pursued a career in automotive restoration and journalism, contributing articles on classic cars and motorsport history. His legacy endures as one of America’s most accomplished drivers and as a pioneer who helped establish the United States as a presence in Formula 1.