It’s 53 years since Aston Martin won Le Mans. It’s not a landmark anniversary by any means, but for the British marque this year’s appearance at the Circuit de la Sarthe is significant.
With the recent passing of winning drivers Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori, along with chief engineer Ted Cutting, it will be the first Le Mans race for Aston Martin without the men who led them to victory back in 1959.
To commemorate this Aston Martin has released some archival footage from the 1959 race. There’s no voiecover and no audio. Just the simplicity of a bygone era. Adding to the memories at this year’s race, the winning DBR1 will be dusted off and driven around the famous circuit once more.
Aston Martin’s Head of Motorsport, David King, sums up the company’s feelings: “We were deeply saddened by the loss of Carroll, Roy and Ted. They all played a hugely important role in Aston Martin’s racing history and will forever remain part of the company’s heritage. To mark their passing, we felt it fitting to return their car to the scene of its greatest victory.
“Many people have worked very hard to make this happen and we thank the Automobile Club de L’Ouest for its assistance.â€
[Source: Aston Martin Racing]