In a remarkably candid and moving interview, three-time Formula 1 World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart has made the stunning admission that his friend and rival, the late Jim Clark, was unequivocally the better racing driver.
The F1 icon's heartfelt tribute emerged during the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where Stewart reflected on the immense talent of the double world champion, who tragically died in a racing accident in 1968.
'He Was In A Different League' - Stewart's Humble Praise
'I don't think I was as good as Jim Clark,' Stewart stated with disarming honesty. 'I really don't. I think he was the best I ever saw. He was in a different league.'
This profound humility from a man who secured 27 Grand Prix wins and three world titles underscores the legendary status Clark still holds within the motorsport community. Stewart's admiration for his compatriot's raw, natural talent was palpable throughout the interview.
The Unforgettable Genius Of Jim Clark
Sir Jackie elaborated on what made Clark so extraordinary, pointing to his incredible versatility behind the wheel. Clark wasn't just a master of Formula 1; he dominated in touring cars, sports cars, and even on the unforgiving ovals of Indianapolis, which he won in 1965.
'He could drive anything and win in it,' Stewart recalled, highlighting a versatility that few drivers in history have ever matched.
A Bond Forged In The Golden Era Of Motorsport
The two Scotsmen shared a unique bond, travelling the world together during a dangerous and seminal period for Formula 1. Stewart's reflections are tinged with the pain of that era, having lost not only Clark but many other friends to the sport.
His words serve as a powerful testament to Clark's enduring legacy and a poignant reminder of the immense risks drivers faced in the sixties. This heartfelt confession from one of Britain's greatest sporting knights offers a rare glimpse into the deep respect and camaraderie that existed between two titans of the track.
