Ford, Supercars teams lead tributes for 'legendary' Allan Moffat

Tributes are flowing for the legendary Allan Moffat, who passed away on Saturday.

The Supercars Hall of Famer died on Saturday morning, surrounded by loved ones. He was 86.

Moffat was a centrepiece of the Australian racing scene for three decades, winning four Australia Touring Car Championships, four Bathursts and six Sandowns.

The Canadian-born driver won 36 races from 104 championship starts. In one of the clearest marks of his greatness, Moffat's win percentage of 34.6% is the highest of any driver with 20 or more wins.

Moffat won Bathurst in 1970, 1971, 1973 and 1977, and was the face of Ford in Australia for years as he took on Peter Brock.

In response to the news, Ford Racing's global account posted to social media: "It is with sad hearts that we wake to the news of the passing of Australian motorsports legend and friend, Allan Moffat. Allan will be remembered as a guiding light to the sport on and off the track. His legacy will stand not only in Australia but across the racing world."

Ford Australia added: "It’s with heavy hearts that everyone at Ford Australia shares our deepest condolences on the passing of the legendary Allan Moffat OBE. "Allan was a true superstar of Australian motor racing and a hero to all Blue Oval fans, both here and abroad. "From the Coca-Cola Mustang Trans-Am to the GT-HO Falcons and those thundering hardtops, Allan’s driving skills inspired and thrilled generations. "Vale, Allan Moffat."

In a touching post, the Shell V-Power Racing Team shared an image of Dick Johnson and Dr Ryan Story with Moffat, saying: "A tremendously sad day for motorsport with the passing of the great Allan Moffat OBE. "On behalf of the Johnson family and the entire Shell V-Power Racing Team, we send our condolences to Allan’s family, friends and the broader motorsport community."

Tickford Racing, which ran multiple Moffat tribute liveries over the years, added: "Vale Allan Moffat OBE. "The Tickford family are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Allan Moffat OBE. "Our thoughts are with the Moffat family and friends during this time."

Many Supercars drivers shared the news to their social channels, where many more paid tribute to the late, great legend.

Notably, Seven sport presenter Mark Beretta said: "What a wonderful man and incredible driver and personality. His Bathurst rivalry with with Brocky will forever be talked about. Legendary."

Long-time rival and friend Larry Perkins, per the Perkins Engineering page, added: "It’s with great sadness that I share the passing of my dear friend, Allan Moffat.

"Allan was a wonderful friend to my family over many years, and he will be deeply missed by all of us.

My sincere condolences to Allan’s family.

"Larry, Raelene, Nichola, Jack & Tara Perkins."

In a touching post, John Bowe wrote: "In my world he was the first truly pro driver in Aussie Motorsport. He was a special man and although he has been widely acclaimed, the DREADFUL disease that finally took him did not let him enjoy that fact as much as he should.

"Later on in the Sierra Cosworth Group A era, he tried to hire me to race the ANZ car, and as much I love talking dollars my commitment to Dick Johnson and DJR was total!

"Al was an enigma in Aussie motorsport but a man of great achievement, mega commitment, but ultimately a great bloke.

"Huge Respect to Phil Grant and LP who helped Moff through his later life journey.

"He'll be remembered forever by me and Lesley's family who loved him since the mid to late seventies!

"Rest in peace Al. If there is a heaven, there are plenty up there to race with."