Early Years and Rise to Prominence
Born on 8th February 1932 in Brough, Westmorland (now Cumbria), Henry Clifford Allison, known as Cliff Allison, began his racing journey in 1953 with a Formula Three Cooper 500. His skills soon caught the attention of Colin Chapman, leading to a significant win at the 1957 24 Hours of Le Mans in a 744cc Lotus. Allison’s prowess was further displayed in 1958, where he secured a fourth-place finish at the Grand Prix of Europe at Spa-Francorchamps, despite lagging over four minutes behind the winner, Tony Brooks.
Formula One Achievements and Challenges
Transitioning to Formula One between 1958 to 1961, Allison represented prestigious teams like Lotus, Scuderia Centro Sud, Ferrari, and UDT Laystall. A notable moment in his F1 career was securing the first World Championship point for Team Lotus at the 1958 Monaco Grand Prix. He also teamed up with Jean Behra in a Ferrari to clinch second place at the 1959 12 Hours of Sebring, setting the fastest lap in the race. These accomplishments underscored his exceptional driving skills and adaptability across different racing formats.
Adversity and Post-Racing Life
Allison’s career was not without its hardships. In 1960, he survived a terrifying crash during the Targa Florio practice in Palermo, Sicily. The following year, he endured another severe accident at the 1961 Belgian Grand Prix, resulting in the end of his motorsport career. Despite these setbacks, Allison remained connected to the sport, frequently attending reunions and being a beloved figure in the paddock. After retiring, he managed Allison’s Garage in Brough, a family business, and provided essential services to his community, including driving school buses.
Career Stats
| Nationality | British |
|---|---|
| Active Years | 1958–1961 |
| Teams | Lotus, Scuderia Centro Sud, Ferrari, UDT Laystall |
| Entries | 18 (16 starts) |
| Championships | 0 |
| Wins | 0 |
| Podiums | 1 |
| Career Points | 11 |
| Pole Positions | 0 |
| Fastest Laps | 0 |
| First Entry | 1958 Monaco Grand Prix |
| Last Entry | 1961 Belgian Grand Prix |