John Surtees, The Only World Champion On Two Wheels And Four, Dies At 83

Surtees is considered as one of motorsport's greatest competitors of all time. He clinched the 500cc motorcycle world championship in 1956, 1958, 1959 and 1960 and then, he went on to show his talents in Formula one. Surtees was F1 world champion in 1964 with Ferrari.

Surtees was admitted to hospital in February with an existing respiratory condition and, after a period in intensive care, he died peacefully on Friday afternoon, his family said.

A statement from the Surtees family reads, "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our husband and father, John Surtees CBE."

"John was a loving husband, father, brother and friend. He was also one of the true greats of motorsport and continued to work tirelessly up until recently with The Henry Surtees Foundation and Buckmore Park Kart Circuit.

"We deeply mourn the loss of such an incredible, kind and loving man as well as celebrate his amazing life. He has set a very real example of someone who kept pushing himself at his peak and one who continued fighting until the very end.

"We would like to thank all the staff at St George's Hospital and The East Surrey Hospital for their professionalism and support during this difficult time for us.

"Thank you also to all of those who have sent their kind messages in recent weeks."