New Zealander · Nelson, New Zealand · Born 18 June 1936 · Died 1992-10-04New Zealand Formula 1 racing driver who won the 1967 World Drivers' Championship and was twice Can-Am Champion, known for his consistent driving style.
Denis Clive Hulme was born on 18 June 1936 in Motueka, New Zealand, the son of Clive Hulme, a recipient of the Victoria Cross for his actions during the Battle of Crete in the Second World War, and progressed through New Zealand's domestic racing scene before moving to Europe to pursue Formula One. Hulme joined the Brabham team in 1965, and won his maiden Grand Prix at Monaco in 1967, a season in which he claimed the World Championship, becoming the second New Zealander, after his own team boss and mentor Jack Brabham, to win the title. Hulme moved to McLaren in 1968, forming a strong partnership with team founder Bruce McLaren, and continued competing at the top level of the sport until 1974, amassing eight Grand Prix victories and 33 podium finishes across a ten-year Formula One career. Hulme, nicknamed "the Bear" for his gruff, no-nonsense demeanour, also competed extensively in Can-Am sports car racing after his F1 retirement, winning the championship twice. He died of a heart attack on 4 October 1992, at age 56, while competing in the Bathurst 1000 touring car race in Australia, collapsing at the wheel of his car during the event.
1967 Formula 1 World Champion and Can-Am racing dominance
How They Played
Steady, reliable driver with exceptional racecraft and strategic thinking
Lasting Impact
New Zealand's only Formula 1 World Champion, known for consistency and determination
Career Honours
- Formula One World Drivers' Champion 1967
- Can-Am Championship winner 1968
- Can-Am Championship winner 1970
- Can-Am Championship winner 1971
- Indianapolis 500 winner 1974
- Tasman Series winner 1969
- New Zealand Motorsport Hall of Fame inductee
- Appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to motor racing
New Zealander Athletes