Early Years and Beginnings in Racing
Brian Henton, born on 19 September 1946 in Chaddesden, Derby, United Kingdom, embarked on his racing career relatively late. Growing up in a modest council house background, Henton did not start racing until he was 23 years old. His journey in motorsport began with a significant victory in the British Formula Vee championship in 1971. Despite his late start, Henton quickly made a name for himself in the racing world, boldly announcing his ambition to become World Champion. Although he never achieved this lofty goal, he found considerable success in lower formulae, particularly in Formula Three and Formula Two.
Major Successes and Highlights
Brian Henton’s racing career is marked by notable achievements, particularly in the British Formula Three Championships and the European Formula Two Championship. In 1974, he clinched both British Formula Three Championships, showcasing his exceptional driving skills. His crowning achievement came in 1980 when he won the European Formula Two Championship, driving for Toleman. Henton’s Formula One career, spanning from 1975 to 1982, included stints with teams like Lotus, non-works March, Boro, Toleman, Arrows, and Tyrrell. Despite participating in 38 Formula One Grands Prix, he never scored any championship points. However, he made history by setting the fastest lap at the British Grand Prix, becoming the only driver in F1 to set a fastest lap without ever scoring a point.
Life and Legacy After Racing
Following his retirement from active racing, Brian Henton transitioned back to his roots, focusing on running a car dealership. He later ventured into property development and diversified into engineering and other areas. Henton has occasionally participated in historic racing events and is involved in equestrian events at his home in Ingarsby Hall, Leicestershire. His post-racing life reflects a versatile and adaptive personality, successfully transitioning from the high-speed world of racing to various entrepreneurial and leisure pursuits.
Career Stats
| Year | Entrant | Chassis | Engine | WDC Position | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 | John Player Team Lotus | Lotus 72F | Ford Cosworth DFV 3.0 V8 | NC | 0 |
| 1977 | Team Rothmans International / British Formula One Racing Team / HB Bewaking Alarmsystemen | March 761B / March 761 / Boro 001 | Ford Cosworth DFV 3.0 V8 | NC | 0 |
| 1981 | Candy Toleman Motorsport | Toleman TG181 | Hart 415T 1.5 L4 t | NC | 0 |
| 1982 | Arrows Racing Team / Team Tyrrell | Arrows A4 / Tyrrell 011 | Ford Cosworth DFV 3.0 V8 | NC | 0 |