While the presence of celebrities like Kim Kardashian in the Formula 1 paddock generates significant attention, the sport has a rich history of influential partners who were deeply involved in their drivers' careers. These women, often referred to as WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends), were not merely spectators but actively participated in timing, lap scoring, and offering crucial support.
The Early Days of Partnership
In the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, the partners of Formula 1 drivers were often integral to their success. Nina Rindt, wife of Austrian driver Jochen Rindt, was a key figure in F1's early 'It couple' scene. A Finnish model with a background in fashion, she abandoned her studies to support Jochen, assisting with timekeeping and lap scoring. Their relationship, often described as 'Beauty and the Beast,' was closely tied to the Austrian Grand Prix. Jochen Rindt remains the only driver to have won the world championship posthumously after his fatal crash in 1970.
Lady Helen Stewart, wife of Sir Jackie Stewart, was also a significant presence. Described as the 'original pit lane girl,' she attended every race and was the one who timed her husband's laps to the millisecond. The couple, childhood sweethearts, built a life together that included acting roles for Lady Helen and a highly successful racing career for Sir Jackie, culminating in his knighthood. Their enduring relationship has spanned over five decades, though they later faced challenges with Lady Helen's diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, prompting Sir Jackie to launch the Race Against Dementia charity.
Varied Fates and Enduring Legacies
The lives of these pioneering partners were marked by both glamour and tragedy. Louise King, an American actress, met and married British driver Peter Collins in 1957. They were a glamorous 1950s racing couple, but their time together was cut short when Peter died in a crash in Germany just weeks after winning the British Grand Prix in 1958. Louise later recalled their brief but joyous time together before his untimely death.
Suzy Miller, a supermodel, became one of the 1970s' It couples when she married James Hunt. Their union was a society wedding of the year, but the relationship was turbulent. Suzy eventually left Hunt for actor Richard Burton, leading to a substantial divorce settlement. James Hunt, known for his intense rivalry with Niki Lauda, died of a heart attack in 1993.
Lady Susie Moss, wife of British F1 legend Sir Stirling Moss, met her husband at a young age, with their families being close. Their romance blossomed despite an age gap, and they shared nearly four decades of marriage. Sir Stirling, who survived numerous racing incidents and a serious fall in 2010, passed away in 2020. Susie, who stayed by his side during his final illness, died three years later, with her sister describing it as a 'broken heart'.
Evolving Roles and Inclusivity
In contemporary Formula 1, the role of partners has evolved. While celebrity associations are notable, the sport has also seen a significant increase in female fan engagement, with nearly half of its global fanbase now identifying as women. Initiatives supported by entities like Allwyn are working to make the sport more inclusive, fostering community engagement and providing opportunities for young people, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, through programs like the F1 Allwyn Global Community Award. This reflects a broader trend towards recognizing the contributions and increasing presence of women both trackside and within the sport's infrastructure.