John Surtees CBE, the only man to win MotoGP and F1 titles, has died at the age of 83.

Mr Surtees was admitted to hospital last month with an existing respiratory condition and, after a period in intensive care, died peacefully this afternoon.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our husband and father, John Surtees CBE,” his family said in a statement.

“John was a loving husband, father, brother and friend. He was also one of the true greats of motorsport and continued to work tirelessly up until recently with The Henry Surtees Foundation and Buckmore Park Kart Circuit.

“We deeply mourn the loss of such an incredible, kind and loving man as well as celebrate his amazing life. He has set a very real example of someone who kept pushing himself at his peak and one who continued fighting until the very end.

“We would like to thank all the staff at St George’s Hospital and The East Surrey Hospital for their professionalism and support during this difficult time for us.

“Thank you also to all of those who have sent their kind messages in recent weeks.”

Mr Surtees won three Isle of Man TT races, four 500cc world titles and three 350cc world titles for Norton and MV Agusta before switching to cars in 1960 where he drove for BRM, Lotus, McLaren and, most notably, Ferrari, for whom he won the F1 crown in 1964.