ABOUT SID WATKINS
English neurosurgeon known for being the Formula One racing community's chief medical officer for nearly three decades (1978-2005) and for revolutionizing medical standards and safety protocols in Formula One racing, which helped reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries in the sport.
He studied medicine at the University of Liverpool and specialized in neurosurgery. He served as a doctor in the British Army before taking up neurosurgery positions in various hospitals. He worked at the London Hospital and the Radcliffe Infirmary. He became a Formula One race doctor in the year 1978.
He was known as Professor Sid or Prof by the Formula One community. He was awarded the rank of Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2002 for his work in improving the safety of Grand Prix racing He enjoyed fishing, smoking cigars, and drinking whiskey.
He was born Eric Sidney Watson. He was born and raised in Liverpool, England. He had two sons, two daughters, and nine grandchildren. He died in London, England on September 12th, 2012.
He was responsible for saving the lives of several Formula One drivers, including Mika Hakkinen and Rubens Barrichello .
