Tributes have poured in from all over motorsport following the death of Sir Stirling Moss on Sunday.

The 90-year-old, who raced in Formula 1 between 1951-61 and so much more besides, passed away on Sunday after a battle with illness.

Considered by many as the greatest driver never to win a world championship, Moss was one of motorsport's first trailblazers competing in a range of disciplines from the Le Mans 24 Hours, to the Mille Miglia and the Monte Carlo Rally in addition to his F1 career.

His accomplishments also earned Moss a knighthood in 2000, but while Sir Stirling the racing driver was mighty impressive, Sir Stirling the person may well be even more so.

"I got to know Stirling after his Motorsport career was finishing and mine was starting," said F1 motorsport boss Ross Brawn via Formula1.com.

"I was proud that I was able to count him as a friend. He exceeded the term legend. His abilities in any sort of racing car were truly exceptional.

"What I admired the most were the qualities of Stirling as a true gentleman. His behaviour towards his fellow racing drivers, and people in racing generally, were an example to us all.

"He fought as hard as anyone to succeed and win, but he never crossed the boundaries and he always competed in a proper way. He set the standard all competitors should aspire to.

"He was always fun to be with and enjoyed life, with Susie, to the maximum. He drove me around Goodwood several times in a Ferrari SWB in which he won the 1960 TT. Memories that will never leave me. Stirling Moss - a truly special person."

Moss's name can be affiliated with almost every major motorsport brand around from Mercedes and Maserati and Aston Martin to Lotus, Ferrari and Cooper.

But what was also clear in the tributes posted via social media, was his devotion to helping the generations of British racing drivers who followed him.

"Today we say goodbye to Sir Stirling Moss, the racing legend," six-time world champion Lewis Hamilton said.

"I certainly will miss our conversations. I am truly grateful to have had these special moments with him.

"Sending my prayers and thoughts to his family. May he rest in peace."

2009 world champion Jenson Button added: "I’m going to miss our chats, your knowledge, your jokes, your help, your direction, your infectious smile and seeing you push whatever you drove to the max even in your 80’s.

"Rest well Stirling. The racing world will not be the same. My heart goes out to his wonderful wife Susie."

Former F1 driver turned commentator Martin Brundle was one of the first to share his reaction to the news of Moss' passing.

"RIP Sir Stirling Moss. A mighty racer and gentleman," he said. "He had a press on style on the track and in life. Remarkable man.

"Survived the most dangerous era of motorsport and died today aged 90. He had such great stories to tell, and it was a privilege to know him."

One of the most touching tributes came from three-time F1 champion and fellow Sir, Jackie Stewart.

"The passing of Sir Stirling Moss is a massive loss for motorsport," the Scot said.

"He was the most dynamic, most charismatic racing driver there has ever been. He walked like a racing driver, talked like a racing driver and looked like a racing driver.

"Of course, he never did win the F1 world championship, only because he always wanted to drive a British car and that time, the Germans and the Italians were all-powerful.

"For me, he was my ultimate hero."