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Obituary: F1 team founder Ted Toleman dies aged 86
Between 1981 and 1985, Toleman underwent a remarkable transformation from a struggling backmarker to a competitive force in grand prix racing. The team provided opportunities for notable F1 talents, such as Ayrton Senna, Derek Warwick, Teo Fabi, and Stefan Johansson, shaping the future of the sport. Ted and Bob Toleman, along with managing director Alex Hawkridge, nurtured the team’s growth with strategic sponsorships and investments in motorsport. Despite facing tragic losses, including the death of Bob Toleman in 1976, the team persevered and made significant strides in Formula 1. Eventually, the team was acquired by Benetton in 1986, signaling the end of Toleman’s era in motorsport. Ted Toleman’s legacy extends beyond F1, encompassing ventures in off-shore powerboat racing and even a stint captaining the renowned Virgin Atlantic Challenger 1. Today, Toleman’s impact on motorsport history remains a testament to the ambition and dedication of its founders and key personnel.
