Ted Toleman passed away in the last few hours at the age of 86. He may be an unfamiliar name to many, especially among the younger generation, but he was an entrepreneur who ventured into Formula 1 and provided the opportunity for many rookies to compete in the top tier of motor racing, including Ayrton Senna.
He was one of the founders of the Toleman team, which raced in Formula 1 between 1981 and 1985. In 1984, he trusted Senna, then a young Paulista and a fan of Corinthians, and the champion of the British Formula 3, to take to the track.
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His first race was precisely at the Brazilian Grand Prix, in which Senna qualified in 17th position and had to retire in lap 8 due to a problem with his car. That same season, in Monaco, the three-time Brazilian world champion began to write his legend by finishing second and setting the fastest lap in a challenging race in the rain, which was won by Alain Prost.
In Great Britain and Portugal, the then Formula 1 debutant also managed to step onto the podium, demonstrating his skills that would later bring him stardom with the McLaren team.
After five seasons in Formula 1, Toleman sold the team to Benetton, an Italian fashion brand that would win two world titles with another legend of motor racing, the German Michael Schumacher.
“I am saddened to hear that Ted Toleman has passed away,” said Stefano Domenicali, CEO of the F1 promoter, in a statement posted on the official website. “He gave a lot to Formula 1, and his achievements and legacy will always be part of our history. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time,” he added.
