Mike Hawthorn (10 April 1929 – 22 January 1959) was one of Britain’s foremost racing drivers of the 1950s and a defining figure of the 1957 Formula One season. Driving primarily for Ferrari, he was known for his bold, attacking style and scored multiple Grand Prix victories against fierce competition from drivers such as Fangio and Moss. In 1958, he made history by becoming the first British Formula One World Champion, a milestone for British motor racing.
Hawthorn retired at the end of that championship season but was killed just three months later in a road accident. While driving his Jaguar on a public road near Guildford, England, he lost control of the car in wet conditions and collided with a truck, bringing a sudden end to one of the most influential yet tragically short careers in Grand Prix history.
1957 Mitcham Foods (UK) “Motor Racing” 25 Card Set