John Surtees Quotes

Powerful John Surtees for Daily Growth

About John Surtees

John Surtees (1934-2017), an Englishman of remarkable talents, was a racing driver, motorcycle racer, and film director, making history by being the only person to have won World Championships on both two wheels and four. Born in 1934 in Chertsey, Surrey, England, Surtees grew up with a passion for motorcycles. His father, Ted Surtees, was a motorcycle enthusiast who passed on his love for the sport to his son. At age 20, Surtees won the Isle of Man TT Race, becoming the youngest-ever winner and setting a record he still holds today. In 1958, Surtees moved to cars, joining the Cooper Formula Junior team. In 1960, he made his Formula One debut with the Cooper team, winning his first race in 1962 at Aintree. He was crowned World Champion that same year, the first British driver to achieve this feat since Stirling Moss in 1955. Surtees' influence on motor racing extended beyond his driving career. In 1960, he founded John Surtees Racing (later renamed Team Surtees), where he designed and built his own racing cars. He also moved into filmmaking, directing several racing films, including "Race" in 1975, showcasing his passion for both motor sports and cinema. Surtees' major works include winning the Isle of Man TT Race (1958), the World Motorcycle Championship (1956, 1958-1960), and the Formula One World Championship (1964). Despite retiring from active racing in 1966, Surtees remained involved in the sport, serving as a team owner, race steward, and broadcaster. John Surtees, a true multitalented sportsman and visionary, left an indelible mark on motor racing with his exceptional skill, innovative spirit, and unwavering passion.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Winning isn't everything, it's the only thing."

This quote by John Surtees suggests a strong emphasis on victory or success as the ultimate goal in competition. The phrase "winning isn't everything" implies that there are other important aspects of life, but for the context of competition or striving for achievement, winning is deemed the most significant outcome. The repetition of "it's the only thing" reinforces this idea and highlights the importance placed on triumph over other factors such as effort, sportsmanship, or learning experiences. This perspective might stem from a drive to excel and be recognized for one's accomplishments, but it also underscores the determination and relentless pursuit required to achieve victory in any given endeavor.


"The more you ride, the better rider you become."

The quote underscores the importance of practice and experience in personal growth and skill development, particularly within a specific domain such as motorcycle racing, as represented by John Surtees. Essentially, it suggests that regular engagement and immersion in an activity will lead to improvement in one's ability and understanding of it. This concept applies broadly to various aspects of life, emphasizing the significance of persistent effort, dedication, and consistent practice towards self-improvement and mastery.


"Racing is a great deal of fun when things go right; it's much more educational when they don't."

This quote underscores the dual nature of racing - both an exhilarating experience and a profound learning opportunity. The joy derived from success is amplified, while failures serve as invaluable lessons that contribute to personal growth and improvement. In essence, it suggests that while victories are enjoyable, setbacks offer a chance to reflect, adapt, and ultimately become a better racer.


"It's not how fast you are on the bike, but what you do with that speed."

This quote by John Surtees emphasizes that raw speed alone does not determine success or skill in motorcycle racing (or any competitive activity). It is essential to use that speed effectively, making strategic decisions, navigating skillfully, and responding quickly to changing conditions to achieve the best results. Speed without control, awareness, and tactical thinking can lead to mistakes and missed opportunities.


"If you fall off or crash, then pick yourself up and keep going."

This quote by John Surtees emphasizes resilience and determination in the face of adversity. It suggests that when one experiences a setback or failure, such as falling off or crashing during an activity, it's important to pick oneself up and continue moving forward. The message is about overcoming challenges, learning from mistakes, and maintaining a positive attitude, even in difficult situations.


If he can't do it with Ferrari, well, he can't do it.

- John Surtees

Well, He, Ferrari

We couldn't get the car back until well after the end of the race and we had very little time for repairs.

- John Surtees

Race, Back, Very, Little Time

The team did a superb pitstop. We had steadily improved.

- John Surtees

Superb, Had, Improved, Steadily

I get appalled when I see good drivers being left on the sidelines because they haven't come up with the half million to a million to put themselves in a competitive car.

- John Surtees

Come, I See, Half, Drivers

Our driver policy was partly dictated by who was available because of other contracts.

- John Surtees

Driver, Other, Available, Dictated

A1 Great Britain has to look at the longer term.

- John Surtees

Longer, Britain, Term, Great Britain

Everything you need to get that relaxed driving that brings consistency only comes with practice.

- John Surtees

Driving, Practice, Brings, Relaxed

I left with nothing and needing to begin a new career.

- John Surtees

Career, New, Left, Needing

Obviously the first sentiment is disappointment that we didn't get the car home and more disappointment that at the time that it stopped the car was in the lead.

- John Surtees

Car, Disappointment, Stopped, Sentiment

The team came together. We're looking forward to the next race.

- John Surtees

Forward, Race, Next, Looking Forward

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.