Ian Scheckter

Ian Scheckter (22 August 1947 - Present): South African racing driver from East London who competed in Formula One from 1974 to 1977, elder brother of 1979 World Champion Jody Scheckter. Participated in 20 Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, scoring no championship points despite occasional flashes of speed. Made his Formula One debut at the 1974 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami, his home race, driving a Lotus 72 for the local Team Gunston. Although the elder brother, Ian reached Formula One after Jody, whose rapid rise to grand prix racing and immediate success overshadowed Ian's career throughout.

Competed at the 1975 South African Grand Prix driving a Tyrrell 007 for Lexington Racing, attempting to establish himself in Formula One. Also made a couple of European appearances for Williams in 1975, gaining experience with different teams but struggling to secure a permanent competitive seat. Returned to the South African Grand Prix in 1976, again driving the Tyrrell 007 for Lexington Racing, continuing his pattern of sporadic Formula One appearances. Secured enough funding for a full season with the March works Formula One team for 1977, his best opportunity to prove himself at the highest level.

Unfortunately, delivered poor performances throughout 1977 with March, failing to match his more successful younger brother's achievements and ultimately not securing another Formula One opportunity. While Ian's Formula One career was disappointing, he excelled dramatically in domestic South African racing, becoming one of the nation's most successful drivers. Won the South African National Championship six times, equaling the championship tallies of legends John Love and Dave Charlton. Achieved 49 race victories in South African national competition, demonstrating dominant form when competing in familiar territory with competitive machinery.

His two spells as a full-time competitor in South African motorsport produced extraordinary success that far exceeded his Formula One achievements. Remained active in South African motorsport throughout the 1970s and 1980s, becoming a respected figure in the domestic racing community. Also became uncle to Tomas Scheckter, who raced in IndyCar and carried the family racing legacy into a third generation. Ian's career exemplifies the challenges faced by drivers whose talents were overshadowed by more famous siblings, and how regional racing success did not necessarily translate to Formula One competitiveness.

Known for his consistency and speed in South African national racing, where he remains celebrated despite his modest Formula One results.