George Eaton

George F. Eaton (6 November 1945 - 8 September 2017): Canadian racing driver from Toronto, Ontario, who participated in one Formula One World Championship Grand Prix. Made his sole Formula One appearance at the 1969 Canadian Grand Prix at Mosport Park on 20 September 1969, driving a BRM P139 entered by his family's Eaton's department store empire. Failed to qualify for the race, unable to make the grid cutoff, ending his Formula One championship involvement without a race start.

Member of the wealthy Eaton family that owned Eaton's, one of Canada's largest and most prestigious department store chains, allowing him access to competitive racing equipment. Before his F1 attempt, competed in Canadian national motorsport throughout the late 1960s, racing in various sports car and single-seater competitions. Also competed in Can-Am sports car racing, the premier North American sports car series, achieving several starts in the highly competitive championship. His Formula One entry at the 1969 Canadian Grand Prix represented his attempt to compete at the highest level of motorsport at his home race, though the BRM proved beyond his capabilities to qualify.

After his failed F1 qualification, continued racing in North American sports car events and Canadian national championships through the early 1970s. Remained involved in Canadian motorsport as a sponsor and supporter of racing activities. Passed away on 8 September 2017 at age 71 in Toronto. Though his single Formula One qualification attempt ended unsuccessfully, Eaton represented Canadian participation in grand prix racing during an era when Canadian drivers were rare in Formula One, predating Gilles and Jacques Villeneuve's championship success.