British F1 driver - who drove infamous Durex car - dies after suffering from long-term illness

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One of Formula 1’s “last true playboys” has died at the age of 69.

Tributes have been paid to British F1 driver Rupert Keegan, who has died after suffering from a long-term illness. The nature of this illness is not public knowledge at the time of publication.

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Keegan took part in 37 F1 races during the 1970s and 1980s, racing for teams such as March, Surtees - a team formed by the legendary John Surtees - and Hesketh, an underdog outfit from the early 70s that gave James Hunt his debut.

Keegan sadly never scored a championship point, but gained headlines by driving the infamous “Durex Surtees”, which had the condom brand as both the title sponsor and plastered over the car’s front nose.

Rupert Keegan drove the infamous "Durex Surtees" in 1978.Rupert Keegan drove the infamous "Durex Surtees" in 1978.
Rupert Keegan drove the infamous "Durex Surtees" in 1978. | Allsport UK / Allsport / Getty Images

Taking to social media, it was the Historic Racing Drivers Club that confirmed the racer has passed away. A statement said: “With the saddest heart, I write this to say that we have lost Rupert Keegan after a heroic battle with a long term illness.

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“Rupi was the last of the true F1 playboys. Charming, funny, great company and always quick - in both cars and life. A lifelong friend, since our teenage years. So many adventures.

“Maybe the book cannot be written... Just yet.”

Keegan’s final F1 race, the ill-fated Caesars Palace Grand Prix in 1982, was also a notorious one as it went down in history as perhaps the most fascinating boring race. The finale of the 1982 season took place in the car park of the Las Vegas hotel, where a flat, dull and uninspired track in blistering temperatures led to multiple retirements, due to either engine troubles or drivers themselves falling ill.

Keegan himself finished 12th - one of just 13 drivers to see the chequered flag. After his retirement from F1, the Brit competed in Cart in the USA and tried his hand at endurance racing, before taking up a career as a racing instructor.

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