Chris Amon
Biography
Chris Amon (July 20, 1943 – August 3, 2016) was a highly respected New Zealand racing driver known for his exceptional skill and smooth driving style, often cited as one of the best drivers never to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix. Born in Bulls, New Zealand, Amon began his motorsport career in the 1960s and quickly rose through the ranks to race in Formula 1. Over his career, he drove for teams such as Ferrari, March, and Matra, achieving numerous pole positions and podium finishes. In 1966, Amon won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans with Bruce McLaren, driving a Ford GT40, marking one of his most notable victories outside of Formula 1. Despite his talent and speed, Amon was frequently hindered by mechanical issues and bad luck, which denied him a Formula 1 race victory. Amon eventually retired from racing in 1976 and returned to New Zealand, where he managed his family farm and remained involved in motorsport as a consultant and commentator. He is remembered as a gifted and courageous driver whose career exemplified both brilliance and misfortune in equal measure.
Known For & Full Filmography3 Titles
Movie - 2016, 2h 15m • as Self
The story of New Zealander Bruce McLaren, who founded the McLaren Motor Racing team, showing the world that a man of humble beginnings could take on the elite of motor racing and win.
Movie - 1966, 2h 15m • as Self - The Winner (voice)
Documentary showing the 1966 Le Mans 24 hour endurance race.
Movie - 1971, 2h 15m • as Self
Formula One 1971 Review - Great Scot! is the DVD review of the 1971 Formula 1 season. This was the year when Jackie Stewart was crowned as F1 champion, the year of the Stewart/Tyrrell double act. At the start of the 1971 F1 season Ferrari was still the team to beat, and the brute force of the V-12 engine threatened to destroy everything in its wake. However, it was the addition of Stewart and Tyrrell into the Championship that challenged the balance of power. It made for an epic season that pitted mechanical muscle against driving skill. And as the season progressed Stewart and Tyrrell developed a magical formula that combined radical aerodynamics with Stewart’s sublime talent. It became clear that the might of the prancing horse could (and would) be tamed.