Grapevine: Bernard Cahier passes away

Having studied at UCLA in America after World War II and becoming involved in the southern California sportscar scene, Cahier began writing and taking pictures of Formula One when he returned to Europe.

A well known figure in the paddock for almost four decades, he also spent time as a public relations consultant for Goodyear in F1 until 1983, when he stepped back from his involvement to allow his son Paul-Henri to take over photographic responsibilities.

The Cahier archive remains one of the most complete photographic records of the sport.

"The news of Bernard Cahier's death is of course extremely sad for his family and many friends, and the sympathies of all at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes are with them now," said McLaren boss Ron Dennis.

"But Bernard's passing is also a momentous occasion for all who live and work in the motorsport world - and that is because, although the word 'legend' is often over-used, in the case of Bernard it is entirely appropriate.

"As a racing photojournalist he was without peer. His pictures, exquisitely composed and daringly realised, captured better than those of any rival, before or since, the majestic blend of speed, spectacle and passion that made me, and others like me, fall in love with motorsport as a youngster.

"But Bernard was other things, too: a courageous resistance fighter during World War Two, an engaging raconteur, and a bon vivant without equal. He will be missed by all who knew him, and mourned by all who work in motorsport, whether they knew him or not."