Chris Amon
Chris Amon (20 July 1943 – 3 August 2016) was a New Zealand motor racing driver renowned for his talent in Formula One, where he competed in 96 Grands Prix from 1963 to 1976, securing eleven podium finishes but never a victory, leading to his enduring reputation as one of the sport's most unlucky competitors.[1][2][3][4] Born the only child of a wealthy sheep farmer near the village of Bulls, approximately 100 miles north of Wellington, Amon began his racing career as a teenager, initially competing on the family farm with an Austin A40 and at local tracks like Levin.[2] By 1960, he progressed to hillclimbs and raced a 1.5-litre Cooper-Climax, later acquiring a Maserati 250F in 1961 and a 2.5-litre Cooper-Climax, with which he finished seventh at the 1963 New Zealand Grand Prix in Pukekohe.[2] His Formula One debut came in 1963 at the Monaco Grand Prix at age 19 with a Lola-Climax entered by Reg Parnell, marking the start of a career that saw him drive for prominent teams including Reg Parnell Racing, Lotus, Brabham, McLaren (1966), Ferrari (1967–1969), March (1970), Matra (1971–1972), Tecno (1973), Tyrrell (1973), his own Amon team (1974), BRM (1974), and Ensign (1975–1976).[2][5] Despite his strong qualifying performances and five pole positions—such as at the 1967 German Grand Prix for Ferrari—Amon's bad luck was epitomized by incidents like the fatal crash of Lorenzo Bandini at the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix, and mechanical failures that cost him potential wins, including at the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix.[2] Beyond Formula One, he achieved significant success in endurance racing, winning the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans with Bruce McLaren in a Ford GT40, as well as the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona and 1000 km of Monza with Bandini in a Ferrari P4.[2][6] He also claimed the 1969 Tasman Series title driving for Ferrari.[2] Amon retired from Formula One in 1976 following Niki Lauda's severe accident at the Nürburgring, briefly returning to the Can-Am series in 1977 before settling back in New Zealand to manage the family farm and contribute to motorsport development, including work with Toyota and the establishment of the Chris Amon International Scholarship in 2007 for emerging New Zealand drivers.[2][3] He passed away in New Zealand at age 73 after a long battle with cancer.[3][7]Early career
Childhood and family background
Christopher Arthur Amon was born on 20 July 1943 in Bulls, a small rural town in New Zealand's North Island. He was the only child of Ngaio Henry Amon, a prosperous sheep and cattle farmer, and his wife Betty, who managed a large 1,200-acre farm near Bulls, approximately 160 kilometers north of Wellington.[8][9] The Amon family's affluent rural lifestyle provided young Chris with ample exposure to heavy machinery and vehicles from an early age, fostering his innate mechanical curiosity. Growing up on the expansive farm, he learned to drive a 1937 Ford pick-up truck and a tractor as a child, often tinkering with engines and equipment under his father's guidance, which ignited a lifelong passion for all things mechanical. This hands-on environment, surrounded by the practical demands of farm life, allowed him to develop self-taught skills in mechanics and driving long before formal training.[8][10] Amon's formal education was relatively limited, with him boarding at Huntley School from age eight and later attending Wanganui Collegiate, where he participated in sports like rugby, cricket, and athletics. However, his true education came from the rural isolation of the farm, emphasizing practical skills over academics until he turned 18. This period coincided with post-World War II New Zealand's burgeoning motorsport scene, as returning servicemen and increased car availability spurred the formation of numerous car clubs and local racing events, inspiring Amon's early aspirations in the field.[8] By his adolescence, these influences naturally transitioned Amon toward pursuing motorsport, building on his farm-honed abilities.[2]Introduction to racing
Chris Amon began his competitive racing career at the age of 16 in 1960, modifying an Austin A40 Special for use in New Zealand hillclimbs and local club events.[11] His debut circuit race came at Levin on April 15, 1960, though mechanical issues limited him to just one lap.[12] Growing up on his family's rural sheep farm in Bulls provided Amon with an early mechanical foundation, as he learned to drive at age six and honed his skills tinkering with vehicles around the property.[2] By 1960, Amon had progressed to a 1.5-litre Cooper-Climax, competing in hillclimbs where he quickly demonstrated talent despite the car's limitations.[2] In 1961, he acquired a Maserati 250F, with which he achieved limited success. In 1962, at age 19, he advanced to Formula Junior racing in the New Zealand winter series, entering a Cooper despite persistent mechanical challenges that hampered his results.[13] He also gained experience in higher-profile events, such as finishing second at Renwick in the Maserati 250F, which showcased his adaptability in varied machinery.[2] In 1963, Amon purchased a 2.5-litre Cooper-Climax, finishing seventh at the New Zealand Grand Prix at Pukekohe.[2] Amon's rapid skill development caught the eye during the 1962-63 Tasman Series, where he observed and competed alongside international drivers like Bruce McLaren, adapting to more demanding circuits and race formats.[14] Supported by his family's resources as prosperous farmers and backing from local New Zealand businesses, Amon secured the opportunity to travel to Europe in 1963, marking his transition from domestic competitions to the global stage.[15][2]Formula One career
Debut and early teams (1963–1966)
Chris Amon entered Formula One in 1963 with the privateer Reg Parnell Racing team, driving a Lola Mk4A powered by a 1.5-litre Climax V8 engine. Although he qualified for the season-opening Monaco Grand Prix, he did not start the race after his car was reassigned to teammate Maurice Trintignant due to mechanical issues. His World Championship debut came at the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, where the 19-year-old New Zealander started from 21st on the grid but retired on lap 10 with an oil leak.[16] Despite the challenging start, Amon demonstrated potential later in the 1963 season, finishing seventh in both the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and the French Grand Prix at Reims. These results came amid a field dominated by works teams like Lotus and BRM, highlighting Amon's ability to extract performance from the outdated Lola chassis in an era of rapid technological evolution. His smooth driving style, characterized by precise control and minimal risk-taking, helped him avoid incidents in a period when high-speed crashes were common due to rudimentary safety standards.[17][18][19] In 1964, following Reg Parnell's death in January, his son Tim assumed control of the team, switching to Lotus 25 and 24 chassis equipped with BRM engines. Amon competed in nine World Championship rounds, securing his maiden points finish with fifth place at the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort after starting 10th. He also achieved strong non-championship results, adapting to the increased engine capacities and track demands of international racing. Reliability problems limited further success, with retirements in races like the Belgian and German Grands Prix due to mechanical failures.[19] Amon's role with Parnell continued into 1965, primarily on Lotus-BRM machinery, though opportunities were sporadic as the team prioritized other drivers like Richard Attwood. He faced persistent reliability woes in World Championship events, retiring from the French Grand Prix with engine issues and failing to qualify for the Italian Grand Prix. A highlight came in non-championship racing at the Mediterranean Grand Prix at Pergusa, where he finished second behind works Lotus driver Mike Spence, showcasing his speed on the demanding Sicilian circuit. These experiences underscored the era's equipment dangers, yet Amon's composed approach earned praise for his accident avoidance and consistency. By 1966, Amon transitioned to various teams, including a single World Championship start for Cooper Car Company at the French Grand Prix at Reims, where he finished eighth with a Cooper T81-Maserati. That year also marked his endurance racing debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans alongside Bruce McLaren in a Ford GT40, providing valuable experience in high-reliability machinery that complemented his F1 efforts. Over these formative years, Amon built a reputation as a reliable and skillful driver in an unforgiving era, setting the stage for major team opportunities.[19][20]Ferrari years (1967–1969)
Chris Amon signed with Scuderia Ferrari for the 1967 Formula One season, partnering with Lorenzo Bandini as one of the team's lead drivers, following his success in sports car racing the previous year.[21] His debut with the Ferrari 312 came at the Monaco Grand Prix, where he achieved his first podium finish in third place despite the tragic crash of teammate Bandini, who succumbed to injuries from a fiery accident at the chicane.[22] Amon went on to secure three more podiums that year—third places at the Belgian, Dutch, and Canadian Grands Prix—contributing to Ferrari's constructors' efforts and finishing fourth in the drivers' championship with 20 points.[23] He also demonstrated his speed in non-championship events, including a victory at the Gran Premio di Roma at Vallelunga, highlighting his adaptability with the flat-12 engine. The 1968 season brought challenges for Amon and Ferrari, as the team struggled with car development amid the rise of the Cosworth DFV-powered Lotuses and Brabhams, leading to inconsistent performance.[22] Amon still managed two podium finishes: second place at the British Grand Prix at Brands Hatch, where he capitalized on rivals' retirements, and third at the Canadian Grand Prix at Mont-Tremblant.[24] The lingering impact of Bandini's death from the previous year weighed heavily on the team, with Amon later reflecting on the emotional toll and the pressure of carrying Ferrari's expectations as the primary driver alongside rookie Jacky Ickx.[20] Reliability issues, including fuel pump and transmission failures, hampered potential results, though Amon secured multiple front-row starts, underscoring his qualifying prowess.[23] In 1969, Amon experienced what many regard as his strongest year with Ferrari, driving the updated 312 with improved aerodynamics, though persistent mechanical woes defined the campaign.[22] He qualified second and led much of the Spanish Grand Prix at Montjuïc before an engine failure robbed him of a likely victory, epitomizing his "bad luck" narrative.[23] A third-place finish followed at the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, one of his seven podiums during the Ferrari tenure, contributing to his career total of 11.[24] Over 27 starts with the team from 1967 to 1969, Amon retired four times while leading races—often due to engine blowouts or accidents—fueling frustrations with the V12's unreliability and internal team dynamics under Enzo Ferrari's intense oversight.[20] These setbacks, detailed in biographies such as Eoin Young's Forza Amon!, prompted Amon to leave Ferrari at season's end, seeking more dependable machinery elsewhere.Later teams and retirement (1970–1976)
In 1970, Amon joined the newly formed March team, driving the March 701-Ford, where he enjoyed a promising start to the season with a second-place finish at the French Grand Prix at Clermont-Ferrand and a third at the Canadian Grand Prix at Mont-Tremblant.[24] Despite these results, ongoing funding shortages hampered the team's development and reliability, leading to just five points-scoring finishes overall and an eighth-place standing in the drivers' championship with 5 points.[25] Seeking to escape the misfortune that had plagued his Ferrari tenure, Amon's move highlighted his pursuit of more stable opportunities, though challenges persisted.[26] From 1971 to 1972, Amon raced primarily for the Matra team in the MS120, achieving notable speed with pole positions at the 1971 Italian Grand Prix and the 1972 French Grand Prix at Clermont-Ferrand, where he also delivered a standout drive to third place despite a mid-race puncture. He briefly returned to March in 1972 amid Matra's withdrawal from full-season commitments, but results were inconsistent due to mechanical issues. By the end of his career, Amon had accumulated 96 starts across 13 different teams, underscoring his versatility and endurance in a nomadic phase of Formula One. In 1974, Amon founded his own team, Chris Amon Racing, and debuted the innovative Amon AF101-Ford at the Spanish Grand Prix, but the car suffered from handling problems and brake failures, resulting in retirements in Spain and Belgium.[27] Financial difficulties mounted, leading to a failure to qualify at the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, after which the team folded due to repeated crashes and insufficient sponsorship.[28] Amon returned to the grid in 1975 with the Ensign team, driving the N175-Ford to a career-best fifth place at the Spanish Grand Prix, his only points finish that year. He continued with Ensign in 1976 before switching to Wolf-Williams for the final races, culminating in his last appearance at the Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji Speedway, where he retired on lap 2 amid heavy rain. Growing disillusionment with the sport's escalating dangers—exemplified by Niki Lauda's near-fatal crash earlier that year—and its political intricacies contributed to his decision. Following the 1976 season, Amon announced his retirement at age 33, prioritizing family life on his New Zealand farm and citing a loss of passion for Formula One's risks and demands.Sports car and endurance racing
1960s highlights including Le Mans
In the mid-1960s, Chris Amon established himself as a prominent figure in sports car racing, particularly in endurance events, where he competed in approximately 90 starts across the decade, navigating the demanding format that tested driver stamina and mechanical reliability over long distances.[29] His versatility shone through in collaborations with major manufacturers, including Ford's expansive effort against Ferrari, which involved teams like Shelby American and Holman & Moody preparing prototypes such as the GT40. Amon's prior Formula One experience briefly enhanced his adaptability to these high-powered sports cars, enabling precise control during extended stints.[30] Amon's standout achievement came at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he partnered with Bruce McLaren to secure victory in the #2 Ford GT40 Mk II for Shelby American, marking Ford's first win at the event and completing a 1-2-3 finish for the American marque. Starting from a midfield position, the duo methodically climbed the order amid intense competition from Ferrari prototypes, ultimately leading the final hours after strategic pacing and the retirement of rivals, covering 360 laps in 24 hours despite the race's grueling conditions and reliability pressures on the field. This triumph, achieved with a 7.0-liter V8 engine producing over 485 horsepower, highlighted Amon's composure in endurance racing's unforgiving environment.[31][32] The following year, Amon continued his success with Ferrari, winning the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona and the 1000 km of Monza with Lorenzo Bandini in a Ferrari P4. He also finished second overall at the 1967 BOAC 500 at Brands Hatch in the factory 330 P4, shared with Jackie Stewart. The 4.0-liter V12-powered prototype started strongly but faced challenges from leading Porsches, yet the pairing's consistent pace secured a podium that contributed to Ferrari's constructors' title in the World Sportscar Championship. This result underscored Amon's ability to deliver in prototype racing's tactical battles, blending speed with endurance over the six-hour contest.[33][34] In 1969, Amon achieved third place overall at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Jackie Ickx in a Ferrari 512S. Throughout the 1960s, Amon's sports car campaigns emphasized the era's prototype dominance and the shift toward high-speed reliability, with his Ford and Ferrari outings exemplifying the intense manufacturer rivalries that defined events like Le Mans and Brands Hatch.[29]1970s and international events
In the early 1970s, Chris Amon expanded his endurance racing portfolio beyond Formula One, competing in key World Sportscar Championship events across Europe and North America while managing a demanding F1 schedule. His versatility allowed him to balance high-speed prototypes with production-based cars, contributing to several factory teams' campaigns. Amon's international engagements highlighted his adaptability to diverse circuits and machinery, from the demanding Nürburgring Nordschleife to the flowing layout of Watkins Glen.[20] From 1971 to 1973, Amon raced for the Gulf team, primarily in Porsche 917 variants during the twilight of the 5.0-liter sports car era. Although the 917 dominated many rounds, Amon's entries focused on supporting roles, including the 1971 Brands Hatch 1000 km where he shared a 917K with Pedro Rodriguez, retiring due to fuel issues amid intense Ferrari rivalry. In 1971, he also finished fifth at Watkins Glen's 6 Hours in a Ferrari 512M with Nanni Galli. At the 1973 Nürburgring 1000 km, he competed for BMW. At the 1973 24 Hours of Le Mans, Amon drove a BMW 3.0 CSL with Hans-Joachim Stuck, retiring due to accident damage.[20][35] Transitioning teams in 1974, Amon joined Gulf-Wyer to pilot the Mirage GR7 and GR8 prototypes, powered by Cosworth DFV engines. Amon did not compete at the 1974 Le Mans. The following year, Amon switched to Autodelta's Alfa Romeo squad, driving the Tipo 33 TT12 at various events. His 1976 efforts included a final Le Mans entry, ending in retirement, as his focus shifted post-F1 retirement.[20] Amon's 1970s sports car phase reflected a maturing international career, with over 10 total Le Mans appearances across his lifetime—his best prototype result a third place in 1969 with Ferrari—though participation tapered after 1976 amid growing family commitments and selective entries. These races underscored his endurance prowess, often prioritizing reliability over outright pace in an era of evolving regulations.[36][20]Other racing activities
Tasman Series participation
Chris Amon made his debut in the Tasman Series in 1964, driving a Lola Mk4A Climax entered by the Reg Parnell Racing Team. Although he retired from the opening round at Pukekohe due to brake failure, his participation marked the beginning of his involvement in the Australasian open-wheel championship, which served as an important off-season testing ground for Formula One drivers.[37] Amon's breakthrough came during the late 1960s with Scuderia Ferrari, where he campaigned the Dino 246T, a modified Formula One car adapted to the series' 2.5-liter engine formula. In 1968, he began racing the 246T, building experience against local rivals such as Denny Hulme and gaining familiarity with the demanding circuits in New Zealand and Australia. The following year, 1969, Amon secured victories at Pukekohe and Levin, finishing second overall in the championship behind Jim Clark's Lotus 49T, demonstrating his speed on home soil.[19][38] The 1969 season represented the pinnacle of Amon's Tasman dominance, as he clinched the championship driving the Ferrari 246T/69 for Scuderia Veloce. He won four of the seven rounds, including Pukekohe, Levin, Lakeside, and Sandown, accumulating 44 points to edge out Jochen Rindt's Lotus 49B by 14 points. This title underscored Amon's mastery of the 2.5-liter regulations, where Formula One machinery was detuned and adapted for the regional competition, often pitting international stars against tough local talent like Hulme.[39][40] Amon continued his Tasman involvement into the early 1970s, with no participation in 1970 when the series switched to Formula 5000 regulations; the title was won by Graeme Lawrence in the ex-Amon Ferrari. In 1971, he raced a March 701-Cosworth DFW, scoring 15 points. By 1972, with Matra's focus on Formula One, his participation waned, but he returned sporadically, including a full campaign in 1975 with a Talon MR1-Chevrolet, finishing fifth overall. Over his career, Amon amassed seven Tasman round wins, embodying New Zealand's pride in the series as a showcase for homegrown talent amid global competition. The Tasman Cup provided essential preparation for the European F1 season, allowing drivers like Amon to hone skills on varied tracks while leveraging team connections for competitive equipment.[41][42][43][44]Saloon and production car racing
Chris Amon's involvement in saloon and production car racing demonstrated his versatility beyond open-wheel and prototype categories, though these appearances were sporadic and often tied to sponsor commitments rather than primary focus. Early in his European career, Amon competed in the 1963 British Saloon Car Championship and select rounds of the European Touring Car Championship with a Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA entered by the Alan Fraser Racing Team. Driving alongside Peter Harper, he finished 15th overall in the Brands Hatch 6 Hours, navigating the 1.6-liter four-cylinder car through class B competition against rivals like Mini Coopers and Vauxhall Vx4/90s.[29] At Silverstone's International Trophy meeting, Amon secured a class result in the same Sunbeam, highlighting his adaptability to the underpowered but agile production derivative despite his limited prior experience in such machinery. Upon returning to New Zealand in late 1963, Amon acquired one of the country's first Mini Cooper S models, which he campaigned in local saloon car events during 1964. This front-wheel-drive hot hatch, tuned for rallycross and circuit racing, allowed him to build further skills in handling production-based vehicles on tight, technical tracks, serving as a bridge between his hillclimb and Formula Junior background and higher-level international competition. Though not a dominant force, these outings underscored Amon's quick learning curve in adapting to the Mini's responsive chassis and transverse engine setup.[45] In the 1970s, Amon's saloon car efforts centered on the European Touring Car Championship, where he joined BMW's factory team for the 1973 season driving the lightweight 3.0 CSL coupé. Paired with Hans-Joachim Stuck, Amon piloted the aerodynamically modified "Batmobile" variant—distinguished by its wide rear wing and flared arches—to victory in the prestigious 6 Hours of Nürburgring, finishing first overall after a hard-fought battle with Ford Capris and Alfa Romeo GTTAs. The duo achieved additional podiums across the eight-round series, contributing to BMW's championship success with the 3.5-liter inline-six engine producing around 350 horsepower in race trim. Amon later reflected on the challenges of transitioning from Formula One's precise, low-suspension setups to the CSL's higher center of gravity and body roll, noting it felt "quite a handful" with more vertical movement under braking and cornering. These races were largely obligations linked to BMW's sponsorship of his Formula One efforts, rather than personal passion projects, yet they showcased his talent in wheel-to-wheel production car combat.[46][47][48]Later years
Post-retirement involvements
After retiring from competitive racing in 1976, Chris Amon returned to New Zealand, where he dedicated much of his time to managing the family sheep farm in the Manawatū District.[8] He balanced these agricultural responsibilities with various involvements in the motorsport community, including advisory roles that leveraged his extensive experience. In the early 1980s, Amon began contributing regularly to NZ Autocar magazine, providing insights on racing and automotive topics.[49] Amon also engaged in media and consulting work. As a consultant for Toyota New Zealand starting in the 1980s, he assisted in campaigning vehicles in local events.[49] His non-racing pursuits extended to public speaking, where he often recounted the perils of 1960s and 1970s Formula One, advocating for improved driver safety measures in interviews and discussions, drawing from traumatic experiences like the deaths of peers that influenced his decision to retire.[50] Throughout the 1990s and into the 2010s, Amon supported the growth of New Zealand's motorsport sector through philanthropy and hands-on involvement, including contributions to the upgrade of the Taupo Motorsport Circuit to enhance facilities for racing and events.[51] He encouraged emerging talent and industry development, collaborating on projects that promoted safer and more accessible racing environments, such as the establishment of the Chris Amon International Scholarship in 2007 to support promising New Zealand drivers in international single-seater racing.[2] Additionally, Amon worked with author Eoin Young on the 2003 biography Forza Amon!, providing detailed personal recollections that highlighted his career challenges and insights. These efforts underscored his commitment to fostering motorsport's legacy in his home country without returning to the track competitively.[52]Historic racing appearances
No rewrite necessary — no critical errors detected.Personal life and death
Family and honors
Chris Amon was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was in 1966 to American actress Barbara Anne McLain, whom he met in Nassau the previous year; the union ended in divorce.[8] In 1977, following his retirement from full-time racing, he married Tish Wotherspoon, whom he had met while racing in England; they remained together until his death and raised three children—a daughter named Georgie and twin sons James and Alex.[8][53] Amon's family provided essential emotional grounding amid the demands of his international racing schedule, with his parents offering early encouragement for his motorsport pursuits from their farm in Bulls, New Zealand.[2] Known for his reserved and private nature, Amon shunned the media spotlight and celebrity associated with Formula One, preferring a low-key life centered on family and the rural tranquility of New Zealand.[26] After retiring, he immersed himself in managing the family's sheep farming business near Bulls, finding fulfillment in agricultural work that contrasted sharply with the high-stakes world of professional racing.[54] This reclusive lifestyle allowed him to prioritize personal relationships over public acclaim, reflecting his grounded personality shaped by his upbringing as an only child on a working farm.[53] Amon received formal recognition for his contributions to motorsport, including appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 1993 Queen's Birthday Honours for services to the sport.[55] He was inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1995, honoring his status as one of the nation's most talented drivers despite never winning a Formula One Grand Prix.[15] Following his death in 2016, Amon continued to receive posthumous tributes highlighting his enduring legacy. In 2023, Motorsport Magazine published a major feature marking what would have been his 80th birthday, reflecting on his exceptional talent and influence in Formula One.[26] In June 2025, a bronze statue honoring Amon was unveiled in his hometown of Bulls, New Zealand.[56] By 2025, a documentary film on his career was showcased at Ferrari museums in Italy, underscoring his pivotal role with the team during the late 1960s.[57]Illness and passing
In the final years of his life, Chris Amon privately battled cancer, a disease he had been fighting for several months prior to his passing.[58] Despite the severity of his condition, he maintained his characteristic humor and interest in Formula 1 racing.[55] Amon's last public appearance came at the New Zealand Grand Prix in January 2016, where he was honored by the motorsport community.[59] He died peacefully on 3 August 2016 at the age of 73 in Rotorua Hospital, New Zealand.[55] The timing followed closely after his 73rd birthday on 20 July.[60] The Amon family issued a statement expressing their regret at his passing and noting that, even amid illness, he retained his "wonderful sense of humour, complete with infectious chuckle," while staying engaged with the sport he loved.[58] They emphasized his enduring legacy as a talented driver whose contributions to motorsport would be remembered fondly.[61] At Amon's request, a private family funeral was held shortly after his death, with a public memorial service planned for a later date to allow the wider racing community to pay tribute.[62] His battle with cancer unfolded without public controversy, reflecting a dignified and serene conclusion to a life marked by the inherent risks of his racing career.[7]Legacy
Impact on motorsport
Chris Amon's driving approach emphasized smoothness and precision, qualities that allowed him to extract optimal performance from machinery while minimizing wear, influencing subsequent generations of Formula 1 drivers in areas such as tire management.[40] Ferrari's legendary engineer Mauro Forghieri praised Amon as "by far the best test driver I ever worked with," noting his "smooth, precise" style that provided excellent feedback and contributed to the team's development process.[40] This methodical technique, honed through extensive testing, enabled Amon to lead races with apparent ease, as demonstrated in his pole-to-flag dominance before mechanical setbacks, setting a benchmark for controlled, sustainable pace in high-stakes grand prix racing.[40] During his tenure at Ferrari from 1967 to 1969, Amon's experiences underscored the marque's chronic reliability shortcomings, particularly with the 312B's flat-12 engine, which suffered repeated catastrophic failures due to piston, crankshaft, and lubrication problems during testing and races.[23] These issues, including engine blow-ups and fuel system malfunctions, limited Amon to just three finishes in 1968-1969, prompting his frustrated departure in August 1969 to seek more dependable equipment.[23] His detailed feedback as a test driver highlighted these vulnerabilities, contributing to Ferrari's subsequent refinements, such as the adoption of a tilting dyno-bed and Pirelli cushion coupling, which boosted power output to 460 bhp by 1970 and enabled championship success.[23] Amon's career narrative, marked by persistent misfortune despite evident talent, served as a cautionary tale for aspiring drivers, emphasizing the interplay of skill and reliability in motorsport outcomes.[3] In New Zealand, he extended his influence through post-retirement mentorship, acting as a consultant to the Toyota Racing Series and providing technical guidance to emerging talents, several of whom progressed to Formula One.[10] Fellow Kiwi racer Howden Ganley regarded Amon as "the greatest driver I ever raced," underscoring his inspirational role among homegrown competitors like Denny Hulme during the 1960s golden era of New Zealand motorsport.[40] Amon exemplified versatility by competing across diverse disciplines, from Formula 1 and the Tasman Series—where he secured seven victories—to sports car endurance events, demonstrating an all-round aptitude that adapted seamlessly to varying car types and track conditions.[40] His statistical legacy in Formula One further highlights this adaptability: over 96 starts for a record 13 teams between 1963 and 1976, he achieved 11 podiums without a victory, alongside five poles and 83 points, underscoring his consistency amid mechanical adversities.[63][64] This breadth of experience, including his co-driving role in Ford's triumphant 1966 Le Mans victory that swept the podium against Ferrari, established him as a benchmark for endurance and adaptability in international racing.[65]Recognition and tributes
In recognition of his contributions to motorsport, Chris Amon was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 1993 New Year Honours for services to motor racing. He was inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1995, acknowledging his status as one of the country's premier racing talents. A definitive biography, Forza Amon!: A Biography of Chris Amon by Eoin Young, was published in 2003 by Haynes Publishing, featuring a foreword by three-time Formula One World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart, who described Amon as "one of the most skilful and natural drivers ever to grace Formula 1."[66] Stewart's praise underscored Amon's exceptional talent, often highlighting his versatility and speed across disciplines despite never securing a Formula One Grand Prix victory. Following Amon's death on 3 August 2016 from cancer, peers including Stewart reiterated these sentiments in tributes, emphasizing his unluckiness in racing outcomes while celebrating his character and skill.[9] Media coverage continued to honor Amon's legacy, with a December 2023 feature in Motor Sport Magazine titled "Chris Amon: 'No-one raced so magnificently but he was so freakishly luckless'," exploring his career's poignant blend of brilliance and misfortune.[40] In New Zealand, annual commemorative events in his hometown of Bulls, such as motorsport gatherings and memorial rides, have sustained public remembrance since his passing. These culminated in the unveiling of a 2.4-meter bronze statue outside the Bulls Museum on 29 June 2025, depicting Amon in a racing pose and funded by community efforts over seven years, drawing hundreds to celebrate his achievements.[56] The Manfeild Circuit's renaming to Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon in 2016 further institutionalized his influence, hosting events that pay homage to his legacy.[67] Amon's cultural impact in New Zealand endures as a national hero, symbolizing Kiwi resilience and excellence in international sport, with his story inspiring generations through local museums, documentaries, and educational programs on motorsport history.[68]Racing record
Career summary
Chris Amon competed in Formula One from 1963 to 1976, starting 96 Grands Prix for 13 different teams, including Lotus, Ferrari, March, and Matra, while also owning the short-lived Chris Amon Racing squad in 1974.[19] He achieved 11 podium finishes and 3 fastest laps but secured no victories, with his best championship result being 4th place in 1967.[69] His career unfolded in the pre-ground effect era of Formula One, characterized by powerful but unstable rear-engined cars and a high fatality rate, with 15 driver deaths between 1960 and 1976.[40] Beyond Formula One, Amon excelled in endurance racing, entering the 24 Hours of Le Mans 8 times from 1964 to 1973 and securing one outright victory in 1966 alongside Bruce McLaren in a Ford GT40 Mk II, along with a DNF in 1965 driving a Ford GT40 Mk II with Phil Hill.[36] He competed in the 1973 European Touring Car Championship with Hans-Joachim Stuck in a BMW 3.0 CSL, securing victories such as the 6 Hours of Nürburgring but finishing 7th overall.[70] In regional series, Amon won the 1969 Tasman Series championship driving a Ferrari Dino 246T, dominating with four victories in seven rounds.[19] Across his career, he amassed over 200 race starts in various disciplines, including class wins in the British Saloon Car Championship during the mid-1960s with Lotus Cortinas.[19] Notable highlights included multiple podiums with Ferrari in Formula One, such as third places at Monaco and Spa in 1967.Formula One results
Chris Amon competed in 96 Formula One World Championship Grands Prix from 1963 to 1976, scoring a total of 83 points without securing a victory, though he achieved 11 podium finishes, five pole positions, and three fastest laps.[71]World Championship Results by Season
The following table summarizes Amon's performance in the Formula One World Championship, including the primary constructor(s) he drove for each year, number of Grands Prix started, retirements, points scored, and final championship position (NC indicates not classified). Retirements are calculated based on starts minus classified finishes.| Year | Constructor(s) | Starts | Retirements | Points | Position | Best Result(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1963 | Lola, Lotus | 6 | 6 | 0 | NC | 8th (Belgium) |
| 1964 | Lotus | 8 | 8 | 2 | 16th | 5th (Netherlands) |
| 1965 | Brabham, Lotus | 2 | 2 | 0 | NC | 10th (France) |
| 1966 | Brabham, Cooper, McLaren | 1 | 1 | 0 | NC | Ret (Italy) |
| 1967 | Ferrari | 10 | 6 | 20 | 4th | 2nd (Belgium, Mexico); 3rd x3 |
| 1968 | Ferrari | 11 | 8 | 10 | 10th | 3rd (Netherlands) |
| 1969 | Ferrari | 6 | 5 | 4 | 12th | 2nd (Great Britain) |
| 1970 | March | 13 | 10 | 23 | 8th | 2nd x3; 3rd (Italy) |
| 1971 | Matra | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11th | 2nd (Netherlands) |
| 1972 | Matra | 11 | 10 | 12 | 10th | 2nd x2 |
| 1973 | Tecno, Tyrrell | 5 | 5 | 1 | 21st | 4th (South Africa) |
| 1974 | Amon, BRM | 3 | 3 | 0 | NC | 7th (Brazil) |
| 1975 | Ensign | 2 | 2 | 0 | NC | 12th (Sweden) |
| 1976 | Ensign, Williams | 8 | 4 | 2 | 18th | 4th (Spanish) |
Entries by Constructor
Amon drove for multiple teams across his career, with the majority of his starts coming during his stints at Ferrari and Matra. The table below aggregates his World Championship entries by primary constructor.| Constructor | Entries (Starts) | Points | Podiums | Poles | Fastest Laps |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari | 27 | 34 | 6 | 3 | 0 |
| Matra | 21 | 21 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| March | 13 | 23 | 3 | 0 | 1 |
| Lotus | 10 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Ensign | 10 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Lola | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Brabham | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| BRM | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Tecno | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Amon | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| McLaren | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Cooper | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Tyrrell | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Williams | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Best Results per Season
Amon's strongest seasons were 1967 with Ferrari, where he secured four podiums including two runner-up finishes, and 1970 with March, featuring three second places and a third. His poles came in 1967 Monaco, 1968 Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, and 1972 Belgium, while fastest laps were recorded in 1970 (Italy), 1971 (Italy), and 1972 (Belgium).[71]Non-Championship Formula One Results
In addition to World Championship events, Amon participated in numerous non-championship Formula One races, achieving two outright victories. He won the 1970 BRDC International Trophy at Silverstone driving a March 701-Ford Cosworth, leading from pole to flag ahead of Jackie Stewart's Tyrrell. In 1971, he claimed the Argentine Grand Prix at Buenos Aires in a Matra MS120B, finishing ahead of the field in wet conditions. These successes highlighted his talent in less-pressurized environments compared to the championship grind. Other notable non-championship results included a second place in the 1974 Race of Champions at Brands Hatch (Amon AF101) and multiple top finishes in events like the 1967 BRDC International Trophy (third). Amon entered approximately 20 non-championship races overall, with a win rate underscoring his competitive edge outside the points-scoring series.[2][19]24 Hours of Le Mans results
Chris Amon competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans eight times from 1964 to 1973, securing an overall victory in 1966 with Bruce McLaren in a Ford GT40 Mk II for Shelby American, marking Ford's first win at the event and a pivotal moment in his career. He achieved a podium in 1969 with Ferrari, finishing third overall alongside Peter Schetty in a Ferrari 512 S despite mechanical challenges. His other entries ended in DNFs due to accidents, engine failures, or other issues, often under wet conditions or high-speed incidents that highlighted the era's risks, including a DNF in 1965 with Phil Hill in a Ford GT40 Mk II due to engine failure. The table below details his full participations, including teams, co-drivers, cars, finishing positions, and key notes.[32][29]| Year | Team | Co-Drivers | Car | Class | Finishing Position | Laps Completed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | B. S. Cunningham | Jochen Neerpasch | Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe | GT +5.0 | DNF | 4 | Accident during early laps; high-speed crash in wet conditions.[72] |
| 1965 | Shelby American Inc. | Phil Hill | Ford GT40 Mk II | P +5.0 | DNF | 300 | Engine failure; car led briefly before retiring. |
| 1966 | Shelby American Inc. | Bruce McLaren | Ford GT40 Mk II | P +5.0 | 1st | 360 | Overall winners; led 38 laps in dramatic finish against Ferrari; first New Zealanders to win Le Mans.[32][73] |
| 1967 | SpA Ferrari SEFAC | Nino Vaccarella | Ferrari 330 P4 | P +5.0 | DNF | 135 | Engine failure; started 3rd, led early laps before retiring in rain-affected race. |
| 1969 | SpA Ferrari SEFAC | Peter Schetty | Ferrari 512 S | S +5.0 | 3rd | 381 | Podium finish; class win; car handled well but suffered minor issues; rain played a role in race dynamics. |
| 1971 | Equipe Matra Sports | Graham Staines | Matra-Simca MS670 | S +5.0 | DNF | 46 | Accident; high-speed impact at high-speed section. |
| 1972 | Equipe Matra Sports | Jean Todt | Matra-Simca MS670B | S +5.0 | DNF | 309 | Transmission failure; team dominated early but reliability issues struck. |
| 1973 | BMW Motorsport | Hans-Joachim Stuck | BMW 3.0 CSL | S +5.0 | DNF | 21 | Engine overheating; wet weather contributed to early retirement. |
Other series results
Chris Amon demonstrated versatility beyond Formula One and Le Mans by competing in regional and international series, particularly during the off-season and early career phases. His results in the Tasman Series highlighted his prowess on Antipodean circuits, while early engagements in touring and saloon car racing showcased his adaptability to production-based machinery.Tasman Series Results
Amon's Tasman Series career spanned 1964 to 1975, participating in approximately 30 events across the championship's duration. He amassed six outright wins, primarily in Ferrari Dino machinery, and clinched the 1969 title after four victories in seven rounds.[74][75] His 1968 campaign yielded two wins, finishing runner-up overall to Jim Clark. In 1966, driving a BRM P261, he secured two victories despite limited starts. Amon's final Tasman success came in 1975 with a win at Teretonga in the Jack McCormack Talon F5000.[42][9]| Year | Car/Team | Starts | Wins | Podiums | Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Cooper T55 / Private | 5 | 0 | 1 | N/A | Debut season; best finish 3rd at Lakeside.[76] |
| 1966 | BRM P261 / Reg Parnell Racing | 5 | 2 | 3 | N/A | Wins at Pukekohe and Wigram.[77] |
| 1968 | Ferrari Dino 246T / Scuderia Veloce | 8 | 2 | 5 | 48 | Wins at Wigram and Sandown; 2nd overall.[78] |
| 1969 | Ferrari Dino 246T / Scuderia Veloce | 7 | 4 | 6 | 54 | Champion; wins at Pukekohe, Levin, Lakeside, Sandown.[75][42] |
| 1975 | Talon F5000 / Jack McCormack | 4 | 1 | 2 | N/A | Win at Teretonga; final series appearance.[9] |
British Saloon Car Championship Results (1965–1967)
Amon competed in the British Saloon Car Championship (BSCC) from 1965 to 1967 for Alan Mann Racing, primarily in Lotus Cortinas and Ford Escorts in the over 2.0-litre class. His efforts contributed to Ford's strong presence in the series, with consistent top-ten finishes and class podiums despite the competitive field dominated by Mini Coopers and Jaguars. Notable results included a class win at Brands Hatch in 1965 and several top-six overall placements in 1966. By 1967, mechanical issues limited his starts, but he achieved a class podium at Silverstone. Overall, Amon's BSCC record featured three class victories across 12 starts, underscoring his early expertise in production-derived racing.[29][75]| Year | Car | Starts | Class Wins | Best Overall Finish | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 | Lotus Cortina | 5 | 1 | 4th (Brands Hatch) | Class win supporting Shelby's efforts.[79] |
| 1966 | Lotus Cortina | 4 | 1 | 5th (Oulton Park) | Podiums in mixed conditions. |
| 1967 | Ford Escort | 3 | 1 | 6th (Silverstone) | Limited due to F1 commitments. |