Oldest living F1 driver Hermano da Silva Ramos dies at 100

Hermano da Silva Ramos, the oldest living former Formula 1 driver, has died at the age of 100 in France. The Brazilian-born driver, who competed in seven grands prix in the mid-1950s, passed away on May 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy from the sport's formative years.

Why it matters:

Ramos's passing marks the end of a direct link to Formula 1's early post-war era. As custodians of the sport's living history, these pioneering drivers provide a tangible connection to a period of immense danger, mechanical innovation, and raw competition. His death shifts the title of 'oldest living F1 driver' to another, reminding us of the relentless passage of time within the sport.

The details:

• Racing Career: Ramos made his F1 debut in 1955, driving for the French Gordini team. His best result was a fifth-place finish at the 1956 Monaco Grand Prix, earning him two championship points in his Gordini Type 16.
• Final Race: His last F1 start was at the 1956 Italian Grand Prix, where he retired due to an engine failure after just three laps.
• Endurance Racing: Beyond Formula 1, Ramos also competed in prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the legendary Italian road race, the Mille Miglia.
• Aged 100: Born in Paris on December 7, 1925, Ramos reached the centenarian milestone. He became the oldest living F1 driver in April 2023 following the death of 102-year-old Kenneth McAlpine.
• Exclusive Club: Only two other drivers who started a world championship grand prix are known to have reached 100: Kenneth McAlpine and German driver Paul Pietsch.

What's next:

With Ramos's death, the mantle of the oldest living Formula 1 driver passes to Britain's John Rhodes, aged 98. Rhodes made a single grand prix start at the 1965 British Grand Prix. The oldest living grand prix winner and world champion remains Sir Jackie Stewart (86), the last surviving champion from the 1960s. The lineage of the sport's earliest competitors continues to narrow, placing greater importance on preserving their stories and contributions.