John Michael Hawthorn, the “Farnham Flyer” to his countrymen and “Le Papillon” to the French (because of his habit of racing in a bowtie), was England’s first World Champion racing driver. Hawthorn sprang to prominence in 1952 driving a Cooper-Bristol and excellent placings in the underpowered car against Continental opposition brought him to the attention of Enzo Ferrari. Joining the Ferrari team in 1953 the 6′ 2″, blond Englishman justified Enzo’s selection by audaciously besting Fangio in the French GP at Reims following a race long duel. Like Moss, Hawthorn had a strong desire to race a British car in F1, however, following unsuccessful stints with both Vanwall and B.R.M., he rejoined the Ferrari team in 1957. The arrival of the V-6 powered Dino 246 the following year gave Hawthorn a competitive machine with which to do battle against the Maseratis and Vanwalls. Hawthorn and Moss (driving for Vanwall) took the Championship down to the final race at Casablanca where, despite a win and fastest lap performance by the latter, Hawthorn’s 2nd place finish won him the crown by one point. Hawthorn announced his retirement to Ferrari team manager, Tavoni, following the race.
Mike Hawthorn, who tragically died in a road accident early in 1959, was a boyhood hero of the artist and epitomized the fun-loving, devil-may-care driver of an era that long pre-dated personal trainers and strict dietary regimens. Hawthorn loved his pints and his girls, but sadly his period also saw the loss of too many cohorts including Ascari, Portago, Castelotti, Musso and his ‘mon ami mate’ Peter Collins. These losses and a kidney ailment that caused him increasing pain prompted his retirement.
Hawthorn is depicted here at Monza, during the 1958 Italian Grand Prix, where he finished 2nd with a slipping clutch.
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