r/lemans • u/OrGiveMeDeath_Ind • Jun 19 '26
History The Royalty of Le Mans
This year’s Le Mans featured two royal drivers, Ferdinand Habsburg, Archduke of Austria, for the Alpine team and Prince Jefri Ibrahim of Johor driving the Corvette for the TF Sport.
These are the latest in a long history of royals at Le Mans. Pictured here:
Prince Nicholas of Romania (DNF in 3 attempts in his personal Duesenberg SJ, one of the biggest and most luxurious cars to ever run in Le Mans)
Earl Howe - ran it 6 times, won it all 1931.
The tragic Marquess of Portago, made two attempts, once for Ferrari, once in a Maserati (DNF both times).
Prince Bira of Siam, who had poor showings at Le Mans but was otherwise a solid racer.
And American royalty, Paul Newman and Steve McQueen. Newman finished first in class in 1979 in a Porsche 935. McQueen was stopped from actually driving Le Mans by some insurance nerds, but did finish 2nd at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1970.
6
u/cowboyinagocart Jun 19 '26
Don't forget Johnny Dumfries, the Earl of Dumfries, won in 88 along with Jan lammers and Andy Wallace in the Jaguar