Racing Nightmare

Today – June 11th – is the anniversary of the tragedy at the 1955 24 Heures du Mans.

What is there left to say?

Two thoughts… rather one thought, and a plea.

When I consider Pierre ‘Levegh’ on W196S #0006/55 I remember first the gesture to Fangio.

A hand signal. Warning of the danger.

A moving recognition of finality, perhaps on par with Donald Campbell’s last, “I’m going…”.

Levegh Crashes, 1955 24 Heures du Mans - Racing Daydreams by Colin Johnston — Levegh Crashes, 1955 24 Heures du Mans

My plea is to not only think of the 83+ dead, but also of those they left… and those who were witness. Hundreds if not thousands of people, broken… by our sport.

View from the grandstand, 1955 24 Heures du Mans - Racing Daydreams by Colin Johnston — View from the grandstand, 1955 24 Heures du Mans

If you wish to learn more, I would recommend the following documentary:

Racing Daydreams

Colin Johnston is a complex case investigator who brings his professional skills to bear, together with his 40 years of study, in his role as motorsport historian and storyteller. Whether it is writing on this website & elsewhere, fact-checking & identifying historical events, curating social media, appearing on TV & podcasts, or acting as a consultant or advisor; Colin strives to share his experience & knowledge in the spirit of good-humour and generosity

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