'Eternal second' Stirling Moss died four years ago

Stirling Moss passed away four years ago today. The flamboyant Briton died on 12 April 2020 at the age of 90. Moss is known within the Formula 1 world as one of the best drivers. Although he never won a world championship, he did finish second four consecutive times and among the top three seven times.

In addition, the 16-time race winner made a name for himself as a true gentleman. He was a popular figure in the paddock of the 1950s. But the former driver of Mercedes-Benz and Maserati, and others, mainly gained name recognition for his fearless racing style and the heroic duels he fought with Juan Manuel Fangio.

The 'eternal second' result also haunted him in other racing disciplines. In the 24 Hours of Le Mans, despite ten participations, Moss finished second twice and never won.

Records and honours

In 1958, Moss secured a unique record that will probably never be broken again. He finished first at the Portuguese Grand Prix with five minutes and 12 seconds lead over his closest rival. That is the biggest difference between first and second ever.

In 1990, Stirling Moss was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame for his contribution to the sport. Ten years later, in 2000, the racing legend was even given a British knighthood.