David Hobbs

David Hobbs (born June 9, 1939): David Wishart Hobbs is an English former racing driver whose remarkably diverse 30-year international career spanned Formula One, sports cars, touring cars, IndyCar, IMSA, Can-Am, and numerous other disciplines, making him one of motorsport's most versatile competitors. Hobbs' career included participation in seven Formula One World Championship Grands Prix between 1967 and 1974, though Formula One represented just a small part of his motorsport portfolio. His greatest success came in sports car and touring car racing, where he excelled consistently. At the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Hobbs made an incredible 20 starts between 1962 and 1984, finishing eighth on his first attempt in 1962 and achieving podium finishes with third place in both 1969 and 1984.

He also earned pole position at Le Mans, demonstrating his qualifying pace at the Circuit de la Sarthe. In American racing, Hobbs competed in four Indianapolis 500s, with his best result coming in 1974 when he started ninth and finished fifth driving a McLaren M24. His championship success included winning the 1971 U.S. Formula 5000 L&M Continental Series championship, driving a McLaren M10B-Chevrolet for Carl Hogan and winning five of eight rounds.

Twelve years later, he claimed the 1983 Trans-Am Series championship, showing remarkable longevity at the highest levels of competition. In 1969, Hobbs was included in the FIA's list of 27 graded drivers, recognized as among the best racing drivers in the world based on their achievements. Following his driving career, Hobbs transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, working as a motorsport commentator from the mid-1970s for CBS until 1996, Speed from 1996 to 2012, and NBC from 2013 to 2017. He provided expert commentary for Formula One alongside Bob Varsha and Steve Matchett, as well as covering GP2, the SCCA Valvoline Runoffs, and the 24 Hours of Daytona.

His articulate analysis, deep technical knowledge, and racing experience made him one of motorsport's most respected broadcast voices. Hobbs was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2009, recognizing both his driving achievements and his contributions to the sport as a commentator.