F1 News: Ted Toleman, Behind Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher Success, Has Died Aged 86

The motorsport world marks the end of an era with the passing of Ted Toleman, a significant figure in the evolution of Formula 1. Toleman, who was 86, died after complications from cardiorenal syndrome, a statement from his family confirmed. His legacy is intricately woven into the fabric of F1 history, through both his team's achievements and the careers he helped launch.

Toleman Motorsport burst onto the Formula 1 scene in 1981, marking the beginning of a journey through 70 grand prix until 1985. The team's influence was not confined to its active years; its assets were acquired by Lucciano Benetton to establish the team that secured Michael Schumacher and Flavio Briatore their first two titles in the mid-1990s. The Enstone factory that housed Toleman's operations later became a Renault facility, pivotal in Fernando Alonso's championship wins in 2005 and 2006, and continues to serve as the base for the Alpine F1 Team.

Among the defining highlights of Toleman's F1 tenure was introducing Ayrton Senna to the world stage in 1984. Senna's debut season included a standout performance at the Monaco Grand Prix, where he showcased his exceptional skill in a torrentially wet race, finishing second. This race is famously remembered not only for Senna's driving but also for the controversial early end triggered by race official Jackie Ickx, leading to speculations of favoritism towards the leading
McLaren-TAG Turbo MP4/2 driven by Alain Prost.

Toleman's influence extended beyond Senna. The team was a stepping stone for drivers like Stefan Johansson, who later joined Ferrari, and Derek Warwick, another prominent figure in the racing community. In 1985, the team’s assets were acquired by Lucciano Benetton, forming the base for the Benetton Formula team. This outfit would go on to achieve significant success, claiming the Formula 1 World Championship with Michael Schumacher in 1994 and 1995.

After exiting Formula 1, Toleman did not retire from the thrill of motorsports. He continued to engage in high-speed adventures, including offshore powerboat racing and participating in iconic events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Dakar Rally. His life off the track was as vibrant as his career on it, splitting his time between the Gold Coast in Australia and Manila in the Philippines with his wife, Maitie.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali offered his condolences privately to the family.