![]() |
Jack BrabhamAustralian racing driver
Date of Birth: 02.04.1926
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Formula 1 Debut and Championships
- Formation of Brabham Racing
- Family Legacy
- Later Years
- Legacy
Early Life and Career
Jack Brabham was born on April 2, 1926, into a working-class family in Hurstville, a suburb of Sydney, Australia. After completing school, he began working in a garage at the age of 15.
During World War II, Brabham served as a mechanic in the Royal Australian Air Force. Upon his return from the war in 1946, he established a small automotive repair business. He also began competing in the New South Wales Championship, winning the title in 1948.
Formula 1 Debut and Championships
In 1955, Brabham made his Formula 1 debut at the British Grand Prix with the Cooper team. He achieved his first Formula 1 victory at the 1959 Monaco Grand Prix. In 1959 and 1960, he became World Champion with Cooper.
Formation of Brabham Racing
In 1960, Brabham founded his own racing team, Brabham Racing. In 1966, he secured his third World Championship title behind the wheel of a Brabham car.
Family Legacy
Jack Brabham's three sons, Geoff, Gary, and David, all became race car drivers. Geoff Brabham won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1993. Gary Brabham competed in Formula 1 and won the 1983 Le Mans 24 Hours. David Brabham also competed in Formula 1 and won the 1993 24 Hours of Daytona.
Later Years
After retiring from racing, Brabham remained involved in the sport as a team owner and advisor. He passed away in Gold Coast, Australia, on May 19, 2014.
Legacy
Jack Brabham is considered one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time. He was the first Australian to win the World Championship and the only driver to have won a championship driving a car of his own design. His achievements and contributions to the sport have cemented his status as an Australian racing legend.