Drivers say goodbye to Murray

Three of Formula 1's top drivers have paid tribute to the contribution made to the sport by TV commentator Murray Walker, who will retire from his post after this weekend's US Grand Prix

Jacques Villeneuve, Mika Hakkinen and Juan Pablo Montoya have all highlighted Walker's influence on helping to make F1 popular around the globe.

Villeneuve said: "Racing can be very exciting, but when you watch TV, it's the commentating that can make or break the excitement that is there or not there. I think Murray has been a very big part of that. That's been a very big help in the UK and actually in Canada [Villeneuve's home country]."

Double world champion Mika Hakkinen said that Walker will be greatly missed. "When he's going to go, it is going to be a loss, a loss to F1," said the Finn. "I think certainly in England because his commentating is very spectacular. And Murray has always been supporting McLaren in a big way and I'm happy for that!"

Despite only learning about the commentator when he first came to England to race, Montoya also recognised his contribution. "I actually have more experience of Murray more from TV than life," said the Italian GP winner. "When I was racing in England in the smaller series, I always used to watch the races [on TV] and he was really good."

Jaguar racer Pedro de la Rosa acknowledged Walker's enthusiasm for every level of motorsport. "I remember when I was racing in Formula 3, Murray commentated on one of my races," said the Spaniard. "I just have that image of him commentating on an F3 race, not only F1 and I thought it was incredible. He didn't make any mistakes either!

"I must say that I'm not sure how the British people are going to react about watching a race without his voice. It will be very, very strange."

ITV pitlane commentator James Allen will step in to cover Walker's role at this season's final race, the Japanese GP. But a full-time replacement for next year has yet to be announced.