Eddie Irvine began his racing career by driving historic single seaters for his father. Eventually he moved into Formula Ford, Formula 3, and F3000 on his way to F1. While F1 was filled with intense, dedicated drivers that would do anything to get the right opportunity in the right car, Eddie was laid back and nonchalant.

Eddie made it as far a F3000 in Europe before he ran out of momentum, and switched to the same series in Japan. Generally seen as a career killer, Eddie turn his Japanese experience to his advantage by winning races. He finally got the opportunity to run two races for Jordan in late 1993. He ran into trouble right away being banned for several races in 1994. After an inauspicious 1995 season, it was announced that Eddie would join Michael Schumacher on Ferrari in 1996.

The first few seasons were character building for the young Brit. In 1999 Eddie won the opening race of the season, followed by two more victories later in the year. Going into the final race of the year Eddie trailed point leader Mika Hakkinen by only 2 points. Eventually Mika ended up with the title but 1999 was the highlight of Eddies career. Landing with the Jaguar team, Eddie struggled with inferior equipment and left the sport at the end of 2002.