Sir Stirling Moss retires from public appearances aged 88

Sir Stirling Moss has retired from public engagements at the age of 88 after recovering from a recent health scare, as confirmed by his son Elliot Moss.

The former Formula 1 race winner was struck down with a serious chest infection in Singapore in December 2016 and underwent hospital treatment before being allowed to return home to the UK.

Moss, who turns 89 in September, endured a “slow and arduous recovery” according to his son’s statement and as a result has opted to end his public work and appearances to enjoy a full retirement with his wife.

“To all of his many friends and fans around the world my father would like to announce that he will be closing it down,” Moss’s son said in a statement on his website.

“Following his severe infections at the end of 2016 and his subsequent slow and arduous recovery, the decision has been made that, at the age of 88, the indefatigable man will finally retire, so that he and my mother can have some much deserved rest and spend more time with each other and the rest of the family.

“The entire and extended Moss clan thank everyone for all their love and support over the years and we wish you all a happy and prosperous 2018.”

Moss won 16 F1 Grand Prixs during his 10-year stint in the sport before his driving career was curtailed by injury after being put into a coma by a crash at Goodwood. The British driver retired from F1 as a two-time runner-up in the drivers’ championship in 1955 and 1958.

In 1955, Moss produced one of the greatest drives in history winning the iconic Mille Miglia in Italy with Mercedes before making a series of one-off returns to racing in his senior years. Moss was knighted on the 2000 New Year Honours list while he has also received numerous racing awards including an FIA gold medal in recognition for his contribution to motorsport.