Toro Rosso's Sebastien Bourdais was saddened on Saturday to learn that Paul Newman, the American film star, has died.

Newman, who died of lung cancer at the age of 83, was the co-owner and founder of the Newman/Haas team with which Frenchman Bourdais won numerous Champ Car titles before switching to F1 this year.

"He was a great man and he will be dearly missed, but he has no doubt gone to a better place," Bourdais said in Singapore.

McLaren boss Ron Dennis also knew Newman, and even gave him a test in a Procar many years ago.

"I extend my sympathy at this very sad time to this great man's grieving family and friends," the Briton said.

Source: GMM