Phil passed away today, very sad. Phil Hill- American Racing Champion borrowed from another site: After receiving a report earlier today, we've just confirmed the sad news that Phil Hill, the first American to win a Formula One World Drivers Championship, passed away at 10:30 this morning at the age of 81 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Hill will be remembered as one of the greatest race car drivers in American history, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Italian Grand Prix, among others. He will also be remembered as a great writer, known to many for his years of work writing about cars and automotive history for Road & Track. Phil Hill is survived by his wife Alma, one son and two daughters. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends, family and colleagues. More information as it becomes available.
Having watched two family members struggle with Parkinsons, my heart goes out to his family. I grew up looking forward to reading his articles in R&T. He gave the cars he wrote about soul and character, and made you feel like you were at the tracks and races that he described. Just seeing his name gives me a wave of nostalgia. Godspeed, Phil.