Heini Walter

Henrich 'Heini' Walter (28 July 1927 - 12 May 2009): Swiss racing driver from Switzerland who competed in one Formula One World Championship Grand Prix after a highly successful hillclimbing career. Won the 1961 European Hill Climb Championship, establishing himself as Europe's premier hillclimb specialist during an era when the discipline attracted top international drivers. Won the Swiss National Hillclimb Championship five consecutive years from 1957 to 1961, dominating Swiss motorsport and becoming a national sporting hero. Made his Formula One World Championship debut and sole championship appearance at the 1962 German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring on 5 August 1962.

Drove a Porsche 804-8 for Swiss team Ecurie Filipinetti, piloting Porsche's final flat-eight Formula One car in what would be one of its last championship appearances. Finished 14th in the race, completing the distance but well down on the leaders, scoring no championship points. Raced Porsche sports cars including the Carrera RSK and 904 GTS models in both circuit races and hillclimbs throughout a 20-year career spanning 1947 to 1967. Competed as a keen amateur racer rather than professional driver, maintaining business interests while pursuing his motorsport passion.

Retired from active racing in 1968 to take over his father's business following his father's death, prioritizing family responsibilities over continued competition. After leaving racing, operated multiple businesses including restaurants, real estate investments, and other commercial ventures throughout Switzerland. Worked as a television commentator, providing expert analysis of motorsport events for Swiss broadcasting and sharing his racing experience with new generations. Continued attending historic racing events for decades after his retirement, remaining connected to the motorsport community and driving period Porsches in demonstration runs.

Passed away on 12 May 2009 at age 81 following a stroke. Though his Formula One career consisted of a single 14th-place finish, Walter's five consecutive Swiss championships and 1961 European Hill Climb Championship established him as one of Switzerland's most successful racing drivers. His hillclimbing success in an era when the discipline was considered a major branch of motorsport demonstrated exceptional car control and bravery on treacherous mountain roads.