Chris Craft

Chris Craft (November 17, 1939 - February 20, 2021): Christopher Adrian Craft was a British racing driver from Porthleven, Cornwall, who competed successfully across multiple forms of motorsport throughout his career. Craft began racing in 1962 with a Ford Anglia and quickly established himself as a leading saloon car racer in Britain. He became particularly recognized for his work with Team Broadspeed, campaigning their Ford Escort from 1968 to 1970 with considerable success. His Formula One opportunity came in 1971 when he participated in two World Championship Grands Prix driving a Brabham BT33 prepared by Ecurie Evergreen.

At the Canadian Grand Prix, his first attempt, he achieved a qualifying time fast enough to make the grid but suffered engine failure during the session. His second race at the United States Grand Prix at Watkins Glen ended with suspension failure, and he scored no championship points from these appearances. Beyond Formula One, Craft enjoyed a distinguished sports car racing career. His greatest achievement came at the 1976 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he finished third overall, demonstrating his endurance racing prowess.

In the early 1980s, he drove for the Japanese Dome Racing team, expanding his international racing experience. After retiring from competition, Craft entered the automotive business, co-founding the Light Car Company with legendary Formula One designer Gordon Murray. Together they created the Rocket, an innovative lightweight sports car that embodied Murray's design philosophy and Craft's practical racing experience. The vehicle became a cult classic among automotive enthusiasts.

Craft remained connected to motorsport throughout his life until his death in 2021 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy as a versatile and accomplished racing driver.