Australian motorsport champion Allan Moffat dies after long battle with Alzheimer’s disease

Australian motorsport champion Allan Moffat has died aged 86 surrounded by his loved ones in Melbourne, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Motorsport legend Allan Moffat has died in Melbourne, aged 86. Picture: David Crosling

Australian motorsport has lost one of its greatest champions, after Allan Moffat OBE passed away in Melbourne aged 86.

Moffat’s death was confirmed in a statement released on behalf of his family on Saturday afternoon.

“It is with deep sadness that the Moffat family announces the passing of Allan Moffat OBE, who died peacefully at 11.05am this morning, surrounded by his loved ones, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease,” the statement read.

“Allan Moffat was not only one of Australia’s most successful and admired motor racing drivers, but a towering figure whose influence shaped the nation’s motorsport identity for more than five decades.

Allan Moffat celebrates his Bathurst 1000 win at Mount Panorama in Bathurst in 1977.

Moffat winning the Bathurst 1000 at Mount Panorama in a Ford Falcon XW GTHO in 1970.

“Revered for his skill, tenacity, and exceptional professionalism, Moffat’s legacy is etched into Australian sporting history.

“Allan Moffat leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, not only as a champion driver, but as a respected mentor, advocate, and friend to many.

“He will be remembered for his unwavering passion, competitive spirit, and the profound impact he had on motorsport in Australia and around the world.”

Moffat died peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Picture: Supplied

Moffat’s great rivalry with fellow motor racing superstar Peter Brock defined a legendary era in Australian motorsport.

The competition between the pair, Moffat in his Ford and Brock driving for Holden, was real, fierce, intense and passionate.

Fans were equally as divided and devoted – Ford v Holden, red v blue, Moffat v Brock.

Later in life their rivalry dissolved into an enduring friendship. Brock passed away in 2006.

Moffat was born in Canada in November 1939 and was proudly embraced by Australia.

Moffat with Peter Brock in 1986.

Brock was a surprise guest when Moffat became an Australian Citizen.

Moffat his career highlights included four Bathurst 1000 victories (1970, 1971, 1973, 1977), four Australian Touring Car Championships (1973, 1976, 1977, 1983), success on the international stage, including competing in the Trans-Am Series, IMSA, and numerous global touring car events, having longstanding partnerships with Ford and Mazda and contributing to landmark eras in Australian touring car competition.

Moffat celebrates his Bathurst 1000 win at Mount Panorama racetrack in Bathurst in 1977.

Moffat after winning the Nissan-Datsun 300 endurance race in Mazda RX-7 at Adelaide International Raceway in 1982.

Moffat was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1978, was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall Of Fame in 2018 and the Supercars Hall of Fame in 1999.

Moffat dedicated his later years to advocacy work as a Patron of Dementia Australia.

The Allan Moffat Foundation continues this important work.

His family and friends have asked that fans support the Foundation so that others living with Alzheimer’s can receive much needed care, support and resources.

The Moffat family has requested privacy during this time as they grieve the loss of their beloved father, grandfather, and friend.

Originally published as Australian motorsport champion Allan Moffat dies after long battle with Alzheimer’s disease