Ted Toleman, Formula 1 driver and founder of the Toleman team, has passed away
Ted Toleman passed away Wednesday night at the age of 86. Between 1981 and 1985, the Toleman team went from being a mere outsider to a formidable giant in Formula 1, offering many personalities in the paddock, be it drivers or engineers, their first chance in the discipline. This was notably the case for Ayrton Senna and Rory Byrne. Despite a difficult start, the team managed to evolve into a major force before being sold to Benetton in 1986, leaving its mark on the history of F1.
Born in South Africa in 1938, Ted Toleman had just celebrated his 86th birthday. He passed away on Wednesday evening, April 10, 2024.
The Formula 1 team Toleman made history in the sport between 1981 and 1985, going from being a small outsider to a formidable competitor capable of challenging the biggest teams. This remarkable transformation was made possible thanks to the involvement of Ted Toleman and his brother Bob, who led the family business based in Brentwood in Essex (United Kingdom), with passion and determination.
From the 1960s, the Toleman brothers invested in car transport, but it was in the 1970s that their interest in motorsport truly emerged. Encouraged by Alex Hawkridge, the company’s general manager, the Tolemans began sponsoring drivers in club competitions, notably using a VW Super Saloon 1600 to promote their activities. Despite the tragedy of losing Bob Toleman in an accident in 1976, Ted Toleman persevered and even strengthened the company’s commitment to motorsport.
This is how Toleman took its first steps in Formula 2, before moving on to Formula 1 in 1981. Despite a difficult start, the team quickly improved, reaching its peak in 1984 with the arrival of the talented Ayrton Senna. He almost won the Monaco Grand Prix that year, highlighting the team’s potential to compete with the biggest F1 teams.
However, after Senna left for Lotus and the loss of a tire supply agreement, Toleman experienced financial difficulties that led to its sale to Benetton in 1986. Despite this transition, Toleman’s legacy in motorsport remains undeniable, recalling the crucial role played by Ted Toleman and his team in developing young talents and competitive cars.
Outside the world of Formula 1, Ted Toleman also left his mark on motorboat races, demonstrating a passion and unwavering commitment to competition. His contribution to the history of motor racing, as well as that of his team, will remain engraved in the memories of motorsport enthusiasts.
Derek Warwick perfectly sums up the impact of Ted Toleman and his team by stating: “I owe everything to Ted Toleman, Alex Hawkridge, and the team. They have been amazing to me. I wouldn’t have been in F1 without them or had this incredible career. I owe this life to Toleman.”
