David Hobbs

1939-06-09 · Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England, UK

David Hobbs, born on June 9, 1939, in Leamington Spa, England, is a former British racing driver and renowned motorsport commentator. Known for his versatility and wit, Hobbs enjoyed a successful racing career across various disciplines, including Formula 1, IndyCar, endurance racing, and touring cars. He competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans multiple times and achieved podium finishes, and also participated in Formula 1, where he raced sporadically for teams like BRM, Honda, and McLaren. In the United States, Hobbs became well-known for his racing in the Can-Am and Trans-Am series, as well as in NASCAR. After retiring from professional driving, he transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, where he became a beloved Formula 1 commentator for NBC Sports and Speed Channel, known for his humorous and insightful commentary. Hobbs' long-standing contributions to motorsport as both a driver and commentator have made him an influential and respected figure in the racing community, particularly for American fans. His autobiography, Hobbo: Motor Racer, Motor Mouth, offers a detailed look at his colorful career and personality.