Blast from the past… Reims-Gueux

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Written by Kate Walker

Saturday, 28 November 2009 12:19

When Jean Todt took over the FIA presidency from Max Mosely earlier this year, one of his first actions was to impress upon the French government – and the world’s media – the importance of a French GP.

Possible sites mentioned include Magny-Cours, Le Mans, and Paul Riacrd. Each venue has its plusses and minuses.

A venue not mentioned as a possible contender was Reims-Gueux, better known to the world at large as Reims, home of the French GP for much of the 1950s and ‘60s. Reims fell out of favour with F1 in 1966, and was closed in 1972.

In its glory days, however, the circuit was known for its triangular shape, which allowed for two long straights and lots of slipstreaming. The straights have been put to good use by the French government, in that the circuit is still open to cars. Unfortunately for any prospective racers, however, it’s public roads and motorway.

The clip below shows some of the 1956 French Grand Prix. Not only do the cars look fabulous, but if you keep your eyes peeled during the crowd shots, you’ll notice how snappily-dressed all the fans are. Suits, hats, ladies and gentlemen – it’s a far cry from the modern Max and Bernie show!

And here’s a brief clip of some real F1 legends battling it out at Reims in 1951: the Alfa Romeo of Juan Manuel Fangio vs the Ferrari of Alberto Ascari. The two men both suffered retirements, and continued the race in their teammate’s cars. How times have changed!

by Kate Walker for Girlracer Magazine www.girlracer.co.uk