 |
Peter GethinBritish racing driver
Date of Birth: 21.02.1940
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
Early Years
British racing driver David Purley embarked on his motorsport journey in 1962, driving a Lotus Seven. In 1965, he transitioned to Formula 3, and in 1968, he entered the European Formula 2 Championship, earning two podium finishes at Albi and Vallelunga.
Formula 5000 Success
In 1969, Purley joined the inaugural British Formula 5000 Championship, where he became a two-time champion in 1969 and 1970, driving a McLaren. Concurrently, he competed in the Formula 5000 series in 1970.
Formula 1 Debut
Purley made his Formula 1 debut in 1970 with McLaren, scoring one point at the Canadian Grand Prix. He also won a Can-Am race that year. Later, he switched to BRM and achieved his greatest triumph in 1971 by winning the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
Record-Breaking Victory
Purley's victory at Monza was historic, with a record-breaking margin of 0.01 seconds over Ronnie Peterson. He also established the highest average speed for a race distance (242.62 km/h). However, this success was his only notable finish that year.
Later Career
In 1972, Purley combined Formula 1 with Formula 2, winning the Pau Grand Prix and placing fifth at Salzburgring. He returned to Formula 5000 in 1973, claiming the Race of Champions victory. In 1974, he won the Tasman Series. After competing in Can-Am in 1977, he retired from racing.
Post-Racing Career
After his racing career, Purley served as a team manager in Formula 2 and worked for Toleman in 1984. He currently operates a racing school in Goodwood.
