The 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans victory remains a defining milestone for Paul Frère, who secured the win driving for Ferrari alongside his compatriot Olivier Gendebien. Born in Le Havre in 1917, he navigated a dual career path that transitioned from competitive physical sport to the rigorous world of professional motor racing and technical automotive journalism.
Early Athleticism and Racing Beginnings
Before his prominence on the track, Frère distinguished himself in rowing, capturing three Belgian national championships. He secured national titles in the coxless four in 1946 and 1947, and the coxed four in 1946. His transition to motorsport saw him participate in eleven World Championship Formula One Grands Prix, with his debut occurring on 22 June 1952. Throughout his tenure, he accrued eleven championship points and earned one podium finish. Beyond the World Championship circuit, his capabilities were evident in non-championship victories, including the 1952 Grand Prix des Frontières and the 1960 VI South African Grand Prix.
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Following his retirement from active competition in 1960, Frère focused on automotive journalism, serving as the European Editor for Road & Track magazine. He broke new ground alongside contemporaries such as Piero Taruffi and Denis Jenkinson by treating motorsport as a technical discipline subject to analysis and instruction. His 1963 volume, Sports Car and Competition Driving, functioned as a standard industry reference, directly shaping the curriculum of subsequent competition driving schools.
Technical Expertise and Porsche Consultancy
Frère maintained deep professional ties with automobile manufacturers, particularly Porsche. He authored the definitive work on the Porsche 911 series. His status as an authority was acknowledged by industry figures, including Alois Ruf, who sought his counsel during the development of the Ruf RGT8. His technical longevity was evidenced in 2003 when, at age 86, he tested the Audi R8 during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, marking him as the oldest racing driver to operate a then-current sportscar.
Legacy and Final Years
In 2007, he sustained significant injuries during an accident near the Nürburgring. He passed away on 23 February 2008 in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps honoured his contribution to the sport by renaming Turn 15, formerly the initial section of the Stavelot corner, in his memory.
Fast facts
- Born: 1917, Le Havre
- Died: 2008, Nice
- Citizenship: Belgium; France
- Formula One debut: 22 June 1952
- 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans winner
- Occupations: Writer, journalist, racing driver, rower
Questions readers ask
What was Paul Frère's most significant race victory?
His most notable victory was the 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans, which he won driving for Ferrari with teammate Olivier Gendebien.
Did Paul Frère contribute to driver education?
Yes, his 1963 book, Sports Car and Competition Driving, became a standard reference that influenced the training methods of professional racing schools.
