MAY 7, 2002

Le Mans honors Derek Bell

Derek Bell is best known for his five victories in the Le Mans 24 Hours.

DEREK BELL competed in Formula 1 with Ferrari, McLaren, Frank Williams, Surtees and Tecno in the late 1960s and today commentates on F1 for American TV. The 60-year-old however is best known for his achievements in sports car racing, which brought him two World Championship titles (1985, 1986), five victories in the Le Mans 24 Hours (1975, 1981, 1982, 1986 and 1987) and three wins in the Daytona 24 Hours (1986, 1987 and 1989).

Bell's efforts resulted in his being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire and has now brought a new honor as the city of Le Mans has decided to name him an honorary citizen. He joins an impressive list which includes his longtime team mate Jacky Ickx, Briggs Cunningham, Luigi Chinetti, the pre-war Bentley racer Sammy Davis and General George S Patton.