France is home to some of the best auto racing players in the world. Over the years, many French racers have made their mark in the world of motorsports. From Formula One to endurance racing, French drivers have achieved success in various forms of motorsports.
Some of the most well-known French drivers include Alain Prost, Jean Alesi, and Olivier Panis. These drivers have earned numerous victories and accolades throughout their careers, making them some of the most celebrated drivers in the sport.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the best French auto racing players and their accomplishments in the world of motorsports.
1. Romain Grosjean
Romain Grosjean is a professional racing driver from France and Switzerland. He currently competes under the French flag in various racing series. He was previously a driver in the NTT IndyCar Series, where he drove the No. 28 Honda for Andretti Autosport.
Grosjean is an experienced driver who has been racing for many years, having competed in Formula One, IndyCar, and other racing series. He is an accomplished driver who is dedicated to his craft and has achieved numerous successes throughout his career.
His reputation as a top-tier driver has been established through his consistent performance, and he continues to strive for excellence in every race he competes in.
Grosjean is a strong competitor who is passionate about racing and is committed to pushing himself to be the best driver he can be.
2. Philippe Étancelin
Philippe Jean-Armand Étancelin was an important figure in the history of motorsports. Born in France in 1891, he was a successful Grand Prix motor racing driver who was part of the sport from its early days.
Étancelin was one of the first drivers to join the new Formula One circuit when it was launched in 1950. He was renowned for his skill in driving, and his ability to master a wide variety of courses.
Throughout his career, he earned a number of prestigious accolades, including the title of European Championship winner in 1934. In addition to racing, Étancelin was also involved in the development of motorsports and worked with various teams to improve their cars and performances.
He was one of the first drivers to adopt the use of aerodynamic wings, and he also developed several innovative techniques that are still used today.
Many of his ideas and advancements in the sport were adopted by other drivers, and have had a lasting impact on the sport.Étancelin’s influence on the world of motorsports was felt far beyond his own racing career.
He was a mentor to many of the sport’s greats, and his passion for the sport was passed down to generations of racers. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential drivers in the history of Formula One.
3. Jean-Pierre Beltoise
Jean-Pierre Maurice Georges Beltoise was a French racing driver who was active in both Grand Prix motorcycle road racing and Formula One. Beltoise began his racing career on motorcycles in the late 1950s, competing in various Grand Prix events.
He would eventually go on to record a number of successes on two wheels, including a win at the 1961 Ulster Grand Prix. In 1965, Beltoise transitioned to four-wheeled racing, competing in Formula One events for the Matra team.
He would go on to race for the team until 1969, during which time he achieved eight podium finishes. In 1971, Beltoise joined the BRM team to compete in Formula One, and it was with this team that he achieved his greatest success.
At the 1972 Monaco Grand Prix, Beltoise managed to take the checkered flag for a single victory. This victory was the first and only win of his Formula One career but was a major achievement in itself.
Beltoise would remain with BRM until 1975, competing in a total of 88 Grands Prix during his Formula One career.
4. Alain Prost
Alain Marie Pascal Prost is an esteemed French racing driver and Formula One team owner.
He has been a major contributor to the world of motorsport and is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers of all time. Prost’s career in Formula One spanned from 1980 to 1993, during which time he became a four-time Formula One World Drivers’ Champion.
He held the record for most Grand Prix victories from 1987 until 2001, when Michael Schumacher surpassed Prost’s total of 51 victories at the 2001 Belgian Grand Prix. Prost’s ability to stay ahead of his rivals saw him dominate the sport during the late 1980s and early 1990s, when he won three consecutive championships with McLaren in 1988, 1989 and 1990.
He also won the championship with Renault in 1993, before retiring from Formula One at the end of that season. Prost later founded his own Formula One team, Prost Grand Prix, which ran from 1997 to 2002.
The team achieved some success, with drivers such as Jean Alesi, Jarno Trulli, and Nick Heidfeld achieving podium finishes. Prost’s legacy in Formula One will always be remembered, as he continues to be one of the most successful and renowned drivers in the history of the sport.
5. Jean Alesi
Jean Robert Alesi is a renowned name in the world of racing. He is a French professional racing driver who had a career spanning over 12 years in Formula One, the premier class of single-seater auto racing.
During his career, he drove for several teams including Tyrrell, Benetton, Sauber, Prost, Jordan and Ferrari.
He was particularly popular with the fans of Ferrari, known as the Tifosi, as he was able to bring out the best in the Ferrari cars. Alesi was known for his aggressive driving style which often led to him overtaking several cars in a single race and setting impressive lap times.
He was also known for having a great sense of humour and was popular both on and off the track.
He often had a lot of rivalry with other drivers on the track, such as Michael Schumacher, which made for some exciting races. Alesi was a great ambassador for Formula One and his competitive spirit and passion for racing will never be forgotten.
He was able to bring a lot of fans to the sport and was respected by many. His impressive career in Formula One was one of the highlights of his career and he was able to achieve a lot during his time in the sport.
6. François Cevert
Albert François Cevert Goldenberg was an extremely talented and successful racing driver from France who participated in the Formula One World Championship.
He had a remarkable career, taking part in 48 World Championship Grands Prix, and achieving one win, 13 podium finishes, and an impressive 89 career points.
Cevert Goldenberg’s first race was the 1971 French Grand Prix, and he achieved his first podium finish in the 1972 Monaco Grand Prix, where he placed third. He continued to impress, taking part in races across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
His first victory came in the 1973 United States Grand Prix, leading him to become the first Frenchman to win a Formula One race. Cevert Goldenberg also achieved a further 12 podium finishes throughout his career, with his final podium coming at the 1974 Dutch Grand Prix.
Overall, Cevert Goldenberg achieved an impressive career tally of 89 points, placing him at 20th in the all-time standings for most career points. He was a highly respected and admired driver, and his legacy still lives on in the world of Formula One today.
7. Didier Pironi
Didier Joseph Louis Pironi was a French racing driver who had a successful career competing in the Formula One World Championship Grands Prix. He drove for three different teams, including Tyrrell, Ligier and Ferrari.
During his career, Pironi competed in 72 Grands Prix races and was highly respected for his driving skills. Unfortunately, his Formula One career was cut short after a fatal practice crash during the 1982 German Grand Prix.
The incident left Pironi with severe injuries that would prevent him from continuing his racing career. Pironi was a beloved figure in the racing world and his tragic death left a lasting impact on the sport.
He will forever be remembered for his skill, determination and commitment to excellence.
8. René Arnoux
René Alexandre Arnoux is a former racing driver who has an impressive record in Formula One. In his 12 seasons of competition, he participated in a total of 165 Grands Prix races, winning seven of them and achieving 22 podium finishes.
His skill and consistency earned him 181 career points. In 1983, Arnoux’s best season, he was rewarded with a third place finish in the World Drivers’ Championship for Ferrari.
This accomplishment is a testament to his skill and talent as a racing driver and highlights the impact he has had on the sport.
9. Jean Behra
Jean Marie Behra was a Formula One driver who lived from 1921 to 1959. He was considered one of the most successful and daring drivers of his time. He began his career in 1946 when he joined the Gordini team, where he achieved his first podium finish at the French Grand Prix.
He went on to race for the Maserati, BRM, Ferrari and Porsche teams, and was one of the most successful drivers in each of these teams. Throughout his career, he achieved numerous podium finishes and even won the 1956 Grand Prix of France.
His success in Formula One was matched by his success in other forms of racing such as sports car racing and rallying. He was known for his daring driving style, which earned him the nickname “The Bad Boy of Racing”.
Tragically, Jean Marie Behra died in a car accident in 1959, at the age of 38. Although his life was cut tragically short, his legacy as one of the most daring and successful Formula One drivers of all time lives on.
10. Patrick Depailler
Patrick André Eugène Joseph Depailler was a French racing driver who left his mark on the world of motor racing. Born in Clermont-Ferrand, Puy-de-Dôme, Depailler began his racing career in 1972 and went on to compete in 95 World Championship Formula One Grands Prix.
His debut in the Formula One World Championship was on July 2nd, 1972 and he continued to compete in the championship until his untimely death in 1980. Depailler was well known for his skill and daring behind the wheel, often pushing the limits of both the cars and the track.
He had a number of victories and podium finishes in his career, including a podium finish at the 1978 Monaco Grand Prix.
He was also a regular competitor in the non-championship Formula One races, often placing well in those events. Depailler’s career was tragically cut short in 1980 when he lost control of his car during practice for the German Grand Prix.
He was killed instantly in the crash, leaving behind a legacy of skill, courage, and a love for the sport of motor racing. His death was mourned by the entire racing community, and his memory is still held in high esteem by fans and racers alike.
11. Jacques Laffite
Jacques-Henri Laffite was a highly successful French racing driver who was active in the Formula One circuit from 1974 to 1986. During his time as a driver, Laffite achieved an impressive six Grand Prix victories, all while driving for the Ligier team.
After the conclusion of his driving career, Laffite moved on to a new role as a presenter on TF1, a French television station, from 1997 to 2012.
Laffite was a key figure in the Formula One racing world and his six Grand Prix victories speak to his skill and importance to the Ligier team. He was a well-respected figure in the racing community and his skill behind the wheel was unquestioned.
His transition to a television presenter was a natural one for him, as his knowledge of the sport made him an ideal commentator and he was able to bring a great deal of insight to his role on TF1.
Overall, Jacques-Henri Laffite was a highly successful figure in the racing world, both as a driver and as a presenter. His skill and knowledge made him a major figure in French racing and his legacy lives on today.
12. Pierre Levegh
Pierre Eugène Alfred Bouillin was a French sportsman and racing driver who adopted the racing name Pierre Levegh in memory of his uncle Alfred Velghe. Velghe was a pioneering driver who tragically died in 1904. Levegh himself met his demise in the 1955 Le Mans disaster.
This disaster was an automobile race which resulted in the death of Levegh and 83 spectators. The tragedy of this event was compounded by the fact that it occurred during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a race that was intended to be filled with excitement and cheer.
The 1955 Le Mans disaster stands out as one of the worst disasters in auto racing history, and the memory of Levegh and the other victims of the tragedy will never be forgotten.
13. Esteban Ocon
Esteban José Jean-Pierre Ocon-Khelfane is a French racing driver who currently competes in Formula One, the highest level of international motorsport.
Ocon-Khelfane has been competing in Formula One since 2016, when he made his debut with Manor Racing, and is currently driving for the Alpine F1 Team. He has achieved several podiums throughout his career, including a third-place finish in the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix.
Ocon-Khelfane is known for his aggressive driving style and has been praised for his consistency and ability to push his car to the limit.
He is also known for his close friendship with fellow Formula One driver Max Verstappen, with the two often racing together in their free time.
14. Pierre Gasly
Pierre Gasly is a French racing driver who is currently competing in Formula One for Alpine. He is a highly accomplished driver who has achieved great success in his career. Gasly won the 2016 GP2 Series championship, which is the highest tier of the Formula 2 championship.
This was an impressive feat as it is a highly competitive series.
Furthermore, he has also achieved success in other series such as the 2014 Formula Renault 3.5 series and the 2017 Super Formula Championship, where he finished as runner-up. Gasly’s success in these series has helped him to be taken seriously in the Formula One world.
His driving skill and determination has been rewarded with a seat in the Alpine team which is a prestigious honor for any driver. Gasly’s career is one that has been full of successes, and it looks like he will be continuing to make a name for himself in the Formula One world for some time to come.
15. Sébastien Bourdais
Sébastien Olivier Bourdais is a French professional racing driver who is widely considered one of the most successful drivers in the history of American open-wheel car racing.
He has won an impressive 37 races in his career, including four successive championships under the Champ Car World Series sanction from 2004 to 2007. This accomplishment is particularly impressive, as he is the only driver in history to have achieved this feat.
Bourdais’ success has made him one of the most respected and celebrated drivers in the world, and he is also a three-time winner of the Indianapolis 500.
His accomplishments have earned him a place in the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and he continues to make an impact in the racing world today.
16. Jules Bianchi
Jules Lucien André Bianchi was a French racing driver who competed in many different racing series. He was a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy and was a practice driver for Sahara Force India in 2012.
In 2013, he joined the Marussia F1 Team, where he competed in the Formula One World Championship. Prior to Formula One, Bianchi had raced in Formula Renault 3.5, GP2 and Formula Three. He had some success in all three series, including a win in the 2011 GP2 Monaco Feature Race.
He also recorded a number of podium finishes in the Formula Renault 3.5 series. Bianchi was highly regarded in the Formula One paddock. He drove for Marussia F1 Team for two seasons, where he demonstrated his skill and potential.
In 2014, he recorded the team’s first and only points finish at the Monaco Grand Prix, finishing in 9th place.
Tragically, he was involved in a fatal accident at the Japanese Grand Prix in 2014. Jules Lucien André Bianchi was a talented and promising driver who showed great potential in the world of motor racing.
He will always be remembered for his dedication and determination, and he will continue to be an inspiration to many aspiring drivers.
17. Bertrand Gachot
Bertrand Jean Gachot is a former racing driver with a dual nationality of Belgian and French. He has had a long and successful career in the world of motorsport, beginning in the lower formulae.
Gachot started off by winning the Formula Ford championship, a series of races in which drivers compete in single-seater racing cars powered by Ford engines. This success was followed by titles in Formula 3 and Formula 3000, two higher tier championships in the motorsport world.
He eventually reached the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula One, in 1989. Gachot competed in a number of Grand Prix races during his time in the series, ultimately retiring from the sport in 1994.
His achievements in the junior formulae and Formula One have been instrumental in his success and legacy in the world of motorsport.
18. Jo Schlesser
Joseph Théodule Marie Schlesser was a French racing driver who had a successful career in both Formula One and sports car racing. He began his racing career in the early 1960s, competing in Formula Three and French Formula Two events.
In 1968, he made his Formula One debut, competing in the French Grand Prix. Unfortunately, he was killed during the race, making him one of the few drivers to have been killed while participating in a Formula One event.
Throughout his career, Schlesser had achieved some success in sports car racing, having won the 1964 European Touring Car Championship and the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. He had also achieved success in Formula Two, winning the French F2 championship in 1965 and 1966.
In total, Schlesser participated in three World Championship Grands Prix, however, he failed to score any championship points.
Despite his lack of success in Formula One, Schlesser had built a successful career in other racing categories and was well-respected in the racing community. His death at the 1968 French Grand Prix was a tragedy for the world of motorsport.
19. José Dolhem
Louis José Lucien Dolhem was a French racing driver known for his participation in Formula One Grands Prix. Dolhem was born in Paris and was the half-brother of Formula One driver Didier Pironi. Dolhem made his Formula One debut on July 7, 1974.
In his three Formula One races, he was unable to secure any points in the championship standings.
Despite this, he was still regarded as a talented driver, and his career in the sport was highly regarded. Throughout his career, Dolhem raced in several other series, including Formula Two and Formula Three.
He also entered endurance racing events, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Despite his limited success in Formula One, Dolhem was highly regarded for his success in the other racing series he participated in. Dolhem was known for his aggressive driving style, which often resulted in collisions on the track.
Despite this, he was still able to achieve success, and he was considered a valuable asset to any team. Dolhem’s career in racing came to a sudden end in 1981 when he was killed in a crash at the Hockenheimring.
His death was a tragedy for the racing community and a reminder of the dangers of the sport. Louis José Lucien Dolhem will always be remembered for his accomplishments and his contributions to the sport of motor racing.
He will be remembered as a talented racer, a passionate competitor, and a loyal member of the racing community.
20. Jean-Pierre Jabouille
Jean-Pierre Alain Jabouille was a French racing driver who had a successful career in Formula One racing.
He competed in 55 races in total and achieved two race victories during the early years of Renault’s turbocharged program in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Jabouille was known for his skill and finesse behind the wheel.
He was a consistent competitor in the racing world, and his two wins were impressive accomplishments in a career full of high-level competition.
He was able to show his skill by outperforming rivals in the Renault turbocharged program and his success in the program helped to establish the credentials of the Renault team. Jabouille was a highly respected driver, both by his peers and by fans of the sport.
He had a long and successful career in Formula One, and his two victories were a testament to his talent and skill. He was a true professional, and his accomplishments will always be remembered in the history of Formula One racing.
21. Paul Belmondo
Paul Alexandre Belmondo is a French racing driver who has competed in Formula One, the highest level of motorsport. He was born on April 7, 1962 in Boulogne-Billancourt, Hauts-de-Seine, France.
Belmondo is the son of legendary actor Jean-Paul Belmondo and the grandson of distinguished sculptor Paul Belmondo. Belmondo began his motorsport career in 1985 when he entered the French Formula Three championship.
He raced for the March and Pacific Racing teams in Formula One from 1988 to 1994, but he never won a race. He achieved a few podium finishes, including a third place finish in the 1993 Canadian Grand Prix.
He also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race in 1989. Belmondo retired from racing in 1994 and has since worked as a team manager for various Formula One teams. He is currently the team principal of the Racing Point F1 Team.
Belmondo is also the president of the French Formula One drivers’ association, and he is a member of the FIA Drivers’ Commission. He is highly respected in the motorsport community and is seen as a role model for young drivers.
22. Louis Rosier
Louis Claude Rosier was a professional racing driver from France who competed in the Formula One World Championship in the 1950s. He was born in Paris in 1950 and had a passion for racing from an early age.
He started his career in the junior formula and then moved to Formula Three. His first major success came in 1951 when he won the French Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Grand Prix.
He also won the 12 Hours of Reims in 1952. Rosier began racing in the Formula One World Championship in 1952 and scored points in his first race. He went on to compete in 24 races, finishing in the points in 14 of them.
His best finish was a fourth place in the 1954 French Grand Prix. He also competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning the race in 1950 and 1951. Rosier was a highly respected and talented driver, but his career was sadly cut short when he died in a racing accident in 1956.
He was only 26 years old at the time. His legacy lives on, however, as he was inducted into the Automobile Club de France Hall of Fame in 1981.
23. Pascal Fabre
Pascal Fabre is a former racing driver from France. He was known for competing in Formula One Grands Prix, and he did so with the AGS team. Fabre made his debut with the team on April 12, 1987, and went on to participate in 14 races.
Unfortunately, the AGS team was not competitive, and Fabre was unable to gain any championship points. At the end of the season, Roberto Moreno was brought in to take over his place. This marked the end of Fabre’s Formula One career.
24. Jean Lucienbonnet
Jean Lucienbonnet was a talented racing driver hailing from France. He competed in a range of motorsport series, such as racing and rallying. His one and only Formula One World Championship appearance was at the 1959 Monaco Grand Prix, where he drove a Cooper T45.
Unfortunately, he was unable to qualify for the race. Tragically, he was killed in a Formula Junior race in Sicily in 1962. Jean was a highly respected racing driver, who had a great deal of success in various series.
He was well known for his skill behind the wheel, and his reputation as a competitive driver continued to grow. His single Formula One entry was a great achievement, and though he did not qualify, it was a testament to his talent and dedication to motorsport.
Jean’s death in 1962 was a great loss to the racing community. He was only in his early thirties at the time and had plenty of potential to continue growing as a racing driver.
His passing left a void in the world of motorsport, and his legacy continues to live on in the memories of those who knew him.
25. Maurice Trintignant
Maurice Bienvenu Jean Paul Trintignant was an extraordinary man with many talents. He was a successful motor racing driver and vintner from France. He competed in the Formula One World Championship for an impressive fourteen years, between 1950 and 1964.
This is one of the longest career spans in the early years of Formula One and speaks to Trintignant’s skill and dedication to the sport. He was a highly respected driver in the Formula One community and was known as a masterful driver who could control any car.
Despite his long career, Trintignant was never able to win a Formula One World Championship. However, he had a successful career in motor racing and remains one of the most respected drivers in the history of the sport.
In addition to his motor racing career, Trintignant was also a successful vintner. As a vintner, Trintignant produced some of the finest wines in France and was highly respected in the wine industry. He was a true Renaissance man, and his talents will be remembered by many.
26. Olivier Panis
Olivier Panis is a former French racing driver who had a successful career in Formula One. He competed in Formula One for ten years, starting in 1994 and ending in 2003. During this time, he achieved his only win at the 1996 Monaco Grand Prix, driving for the Ligier team.
He is also the father of the racing driver Aurélien Panis. Panis’ career in Formula One began in 1994, driving for the Larrousse team. He competed in many races for them and achieved some moderate success. His best finish with Larrousse was third, at the 1995 Italian Grand Prix.
After leaving Larrousse, he joined the Ligier team in 1996, and achieved his only Formula One victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, beating out Michael Schumacher and Jacques Villeneuve. He remained with Ligier for two more seasons before joining Prost in 1998.
He raced for Prost for four seasons, achieving his best result with them at the 1998 Canadian Grand Prix, where he finished second. He then joined the BAR team in 2001 and stayed with them until his retirement in 2003.
Since retiring from Formula One, Panis has turned his attention to his son’s career. His son, Aurélien Panis, is a racing driver who has competed in many different racing series. He has achieved some success, including a win in the Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup in 2018.
He is currently competing in the Formula Renault Eurocup. Olivier has been an important part of his son’s career, providing support and guidance as he pursues his racing ambitions. Olivier Panis is remembered as one of the most successful French Formula One drivers.
He achieved one of the greatest moments in his career with his win at the 1996 Monaco Grand Prix and is now helping his son to achieve success in motorsport.
27. Érik Comas
Érik Gilbert Comas is a retired French Formula One driver who enjoyed a successful career in motorsport. He began his career in 1988 when he won the French Formula 3 championship.
Two years later, he won the prestigious Formula 3000 championship, tying with fellow French driver Jean Alesi in points but ultimately losing on a count-back of positions.
Comas made his Formula One debut on March 10, 1991 and went on to take part in a total of 63 races during his career.
He was unable to win any of them, but he did make the podium on three occasions, with third-place finishes at the 1993 Japanese Grand Prix, the 1994 Brazilian Grand Prix, and the 1995 San Marino Grand Prix.
Overall, Comas had a successful career in Formula One, and he was highly regarded by his peers. Although he never won a race, his achievements were respected and appreciated by the motorsport world.
28. Guy Ligier
Guy Camille Ligier was an inspiring figure who had an incredibly varied and successful life. He was born in France and began his career as a rugby player.
During this time, he developed a passion for racing, and in 1962 he became a professional racing driver.He then went on to become an accomplished butcher, while continuing to pursue his passion for racing.
In 1976, he formed the Ligier racing team and began competing in Formula One.
He quickly established himself as a formidable team owner, and over the next two decades, his team had several successes, including winning the French Grand Prix in 1979. In 1996, Ligier retired from the racing world and sold his team to Alain Prost.
Although he no longer actively competed himself, he remained involved in the sport, and later became an ambassador for Formula One. Throughout his career, Ligier was loved and respected for his accomplishments, and his legacy lives on in the world of racing.
He was an inspiration to many, and he will continue to be remembered as one of the greats in the racing world.
29. Jean-Éric Vergne
Jean-Éric Serge Raymond Vergne, commonly known as JEV, is a French racing driver who competes in the FIA Formula E Championship.
He is one of the most successful drivers in the series, having won two championships in 2014-15 and 2017-18, and currently competes for DS Penske.JEV started his racing career in karting in 2005 and quickly rose up the ranks to become one of the top drivers in the sport.
He moved to Formula Renault 2.0 in 2007, and then to Formula 3 Euro Series in 2009, winning the championship in 2010. In 2011, he made the jump to Formula 1 with the Toro Rosso team, becoming the first French driver to race in the series since 1997.
He has since competed in both the Formula E and Formula 1 championships, earning several podium finishes in both series.JEV is a two-time Formula E champion, and is one of the most successful drivers in the series.
He currently competes for DS Penske in the championship and has earned several podium finishes since joining the team in 2018.
He is also a two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and a two-time winner of the Super GT championship.JEV is a highly successful and respected racing driver who has earned a great deal of success in a wide variety of racing series.
He is a two-time Formula E champion and is one of the most successful drivers in the series. He is also a two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and a two-time winner of the Super GT championship.
He currently competes for DS Penske in the FIA Formula E Championship and has earned several podium finishes since joining the team in 2018.
30. Yannick Dalmas
Yannick Dalmas is a renowned former racing driver from France. He has an impressive résumé, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans four times, each with a different team.
Prior to his domination of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, he was involved in Formula One, having participated in 49 Grands Prix races, making his debut in October 1987. Although he participated in 49 races, he only managed to qualify for 24 of them.
This impressive feat makes Yannick Dalmas one of the most successful French racing drivers in history. He was able to prove his skill in both endurance and speed racing, showcasing his versatility and skill as a driver.
31. Olivier Grouillard
Olivier Grouillard is a highly accomplished racing driver from France. He first entered the competitive racing world at the young age of fourteen, when he began participating in go-kart races such as the Volant Elf.
With his natural talent and skill, he quickly rose to the top and won the Formula Renault title. Grouillard then moved onto Formula 3000, where he competed from 1985 to 1988 and achieved two impressive wins.
His impressive racing career is a testament to his skill and passion for the sport. His success on the track has earned him a place amongst the greats in the world of motorsports.
32. Henri Louveau
Henri Louveau was a French racing driver best known for his participation in two Formula One World Championship Grands Prix in 1950. On September 3, 1950, Louveau made his debut and although he did not score any points in the championship, he achieved success in other races.
Notably, he came in second place in the 1949 24 Hours of Le Mans, a prestigious endurance race. This achievement put him amongst the best of the racing drivers of that era.
Although Louveau was not able to achieve the same level of success in Formula One as he did in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, his two races in the championship demonstrate his commitment to the sport.
He was one of the few racing drivers at the time that was able to compete in both events, showing his versatility as a competitor.
Unfortunately, he was unable to score any championship points, but his performance in the 24 Hours of Le Mans shows that he was a formidable and talented racer.
33. Roger Loyer
Roger Loyer was a highly successful motorcycle road racer and racing driver from France. He was particularly successful in the French Grand Prix, winning the 1937 250cc and the 1938 350cc titles.
Loyer’s success on the track extended to Formula One, where he participated in the 1954 Argentine Grand Prix.
His participation in this race marked Loyer’s only appearance in a Formula One World Championship, though his success in other forms of motorsport racing was impressive enough to earn him a place in the history books. Loyer’s success in the French Grand Prix was a result of his skill, dedication, and determination.
He was able to maintain a consistent level of performance throughout the entire race, allowing him to secure the titles in both the 250cc and the 350cc classes.
His victory in the 250cc class was particularly impressive, as it was the first time a French rider had won the title. In 1954, Loyer had the opportunity to compete in the Formula One World Championship Grand Prix, the most prestigious motorsport event of its time.
Although he was not able to secure the overall title, his participation in the race was a testament to his skill and commitment.
Loyer was able to compete against some of the best drivers in the world, a feat that not many other French racers had achieved. To this day, Roger Loyer is remembered as one of the greatest French racers of all time.
His success in the French Grand Prix and his participation in the Formula One Championship Grand Prix cemented his legacy as a great driver and a great champion.
He may no longer be with us, but his memory will be remembered by motorsport fans around the world for years to come.
34. Max Jean
Max Jean is a French former racing driver, who achieved notable success in his career. He won the Formule France championship in 1968, a prestigious title in the racing world. He also competed in Formula Two and Formula Three and even raced in the Formula One Grand Prix.
Jean participated in his home race on 4 July 1971, driving a March for Frank Williams Racing Cars. Unfortunately, he did not win any championship points during this event.
Nevertheless, Jean’s commitment to the sport and his accomplishments are still remembered and celebrated today.
35. François Hesnault
François Hesnault is a former French racing driver who had the privilege of participating in 21 Formula One Grands Prix. His debut race was on 25 March 1984, but unfortunately he was unable to score any points in the championship.
Hesnault was born to a family of considerable wealth, as they had their own transport business. This provided him with access to the best resources available in the racing world, allowing him to develop his skill and talent in motorsport.
Despite this, he was unable to capitalize on it and make a lasting impression in Formula One. It is a testament to the difficulty of the sport that even with the backing of a wealthy family, Hesnault was unable to make much progress in the Formula One championship.
His experience in the sport, however, should not be discounted, as it provided him with invaluable knowledge and experience in the world of motorsport.
36. Patrick Tambay
Patrick Daniel Tambay was a well-regarded figure in the world of racing. He was a French racing driver, commentator, and politician. During his career, he competed in 123 Formula One races between 1977 and 1986. He earned five pole positions and won twice.
His success was no surprise, as he had been training to become a racing driver since 1971 when he attended Winfield Racing School in France.At the racing school, Tambay received the essential skills and knowledge that he needed to become a successful racing driver.
He was able to hone his skills behind the wheel, as well as learn about driving techniques and safety. With these skills, he was able to become one of the most successful drivers in Formula One. Aside from his racing career, Tambay was also a commentator and a politician.
He was well-known for his articulate and entertaining commentary during races. He also was involved in politics and was a member of the French National Assembly from 1989-1993. Patrick Daniel Tambay was a remarkable figure in the world of racing.
His training at Winfield Racing School in 1971 set him on the path to becoming one of the most successful drivers in Formula One. He also had a successful career as a commentator and politician, making him a well-respected figure in the racing world.
37. Eugène Martin
Eugène Martin was a French racing driver who competed in two Formula One World Championship Grands Prix. He made his debut in the world of Formula One on 13th May 1950, but unfortunately he was not able to score any points in the championship.
Despite this, Martin was well known for his participation in several prewar grands prix.
He was a successful and popular driver in the pre-war era, and his name still carries a certain degree of prestige even today. Martin was born in France and he began his career in racing at a young age.
His success in the pre-war era grands prix earned him a place on the Formula One World Championship.
Although he was unable to score any points, he gained a lot of experience and notoriety from his involvement in the championship. Martin continued to race in the pre-war era and he was successful in many events.
He won several races and was a regular podium finisher in the pre-war season. His success was impressive despite the fact that he was facing stiff competition from other drivers. Unfortunately, Martin was unable to transfer his success to the Formula One World Championship.
Despite his best efforts, he was unable to achieve a podium finish and was unable to score points in the championship.
This was a huge disappointment for Martin, but he continued to race and compete in other events. Despite his lack of success in Formula One, Eugène Martin will always be remembered for his achievements in the pre-war era.
He was a talented driver and he achieved a lot in his racing career. Martin will always be remembered as one of the greats of pre-war Formula One racing.
38. Franck Montagny
Franck Montagny is a former professional racing driver from France. Born in 1976, he has been active in the motorsport industry since the early 2000s.
Throughout his career, Franck has been involved in many different types of racing, including Formula One, Formula 3, and the American Le Mans Series. In 2006, Franck Montagny joined the Super Aguri Formula One team as a driver.
Although his stay with the team was short-lived, he still managed to make an impact, achieving the team’s best-ever finish in the 2006 German Grand Prix, where he finished tenth.
After Super Aguri, Franck continued to race in Formula 3 and the American Le Mans Series before eventually retiring in 2012. Throughout his career, Franck Montagny has won several awards and accolades.
He was the Formula 3 Euro Series champion in 2002, and he also won numerous races in the American Le Mans Series. His most recent accomplishment was winning the 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he drove the #2 Audi R18 e-tron quattro.
Franck Montagny is a respected figure in the racing world and his successes on the track have earned him the admiration of drivers and fans alike. With his retirement, he has moved onto other endeavors, such as working as a commentator for Formula One events.
His knowledge and experience provide valuable insight into the sport that is sure to be appreciated by many.
39. Aldo Gordini
Aldo Gordini was a renowned racing driver from France. He was born in Bologna, Italy, and was the son of Amédée Gordini, the famous owner of the French sports car manufacturer Gordini.
Aldo worked for the family’s racing team as a mechanic, and he also had the opportunity to drive in Grand Prix motor racing events and Formula Two races. He had a vast knowledge of the mechanics of racing cars, due to his experience as a mechanic.
This helped him to be successful on the track. Throughout his career, Gordini was known for his technical acumen and strong racing performances.
He was a versatile driver, capable of competing in a variety of disciplines, ranging from Formula One and Formula Two to endurance racing and rallycross. He won several races and championships, including the Italian Grand Prix in 1955.
He was also part of the Ferrari team that won the World Championship in 1956. Aldo Gordini was also a successful entrepreneur. He started his own racing team, which was very successful in the sport.
His cars have been used by many racing teams throughout history, including the likes of Scuderia Ferrari and Williams F1.
He was also a team manager for several teams, and he helped to develop and improve the performance of the cars. Gordini was an important figure in the history of motorsport, and he is remembered for his achievements in the sport.
He was an innovative thinker and a passionate driver, and he left a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport.
40. Eugène Chaboud
Marius Eugène Chaboud was a French racing driver who had a successful career in motorsport. He competed in three Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, and was able to score one championship point in the process.
In addition to his championship appearances, Chaboud also participated in a number of non-Championship Formula One events, which allowed him to display his talents and gain further recognition.
Chaboud was an experienced driver who had won several championships prior to his appearances in Formula One. He was a regular fixture in the French Grand Prix, and his performance in Formula One events was impressive.
He was regularly among the frontrunners, and his ability to consistently finish in the points earned him the respect of his peers. Despite his success, Chaboud was unable to secure a full-time drive in Formula One.
As a result, he never achieved the same level of success as some of the more established drivers. However, he was still able to make his mark in the sport and become a well-known figure in French motorsport.
His career in Formula One may have been short-lived, but his legacy as a skilled driver remains.
41. François Picard
François Picard was a racing driver from France who is best known for his participation in the 1958 Formula One Grand Prix. On 19 October 1958, Picard entered the race with the goal of earning championship points.
However, his hopes were dashed when he crashed his Cooper into the Ferrari of Olivier Gendebien, who had spun in front of him. The accident resulted in serious injuries for Picard, and it proved to be his last race.
This event marked the end of Picard’s career as a racing driver. Despite his brief time in the sport, Picard left an indelible mark on the racing community, as he was one of the brave racers who dared to enter the dangerous and thrilling world of Formula One.
42. Gérard Larrousse
Gérard Gilles Marie Armand Larrousse is a renowned French racing driver who has achieved success in a variety of motorsports disciplines. He has competed in sports car racing, rallying and Formula One, with his greatest success coming in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
In 1973 and 1974, Larrousse drove a Matra-Simca MS670, and was victorious on both occasions, making him one of the few drivers to have won the prestigious endurance race twice. Throughout his career, Larrousse has had respectable results in a variety of different series.
He was a regular competitor in Formula 2 in the early 1970s and was runner-up in the European Formula 2 Championship in 1972.
He also competed in the World Rally Championship and the European Rally Championship, finishing in the top ten on several occasions. Larrousse is also known for his involvement in the development of the Renault Espace, a pioneering multi-purpose vehicle.
He was involved in the design and development of the car’s chassis and suspension, as well as its aerodynamics.
His work on the Espace helped make it one of the world’s most successful MPVs.Today, Larrousse is still highly respected in the world of motorsport and is remembered for his achievements as a driver and engineer. He remains a French motorsport icon and an inspiration to many.
43. Éric Bernard
Éric Bernard was a French Formula One racing driver who raced competitively in the sport from 1989 to 1994. During that time, he drove for three teams: Ligier, Larrousse, and Lotus.
Of all his Formula One races, the best finish that Éric achieved was third place in the 1994 German Grand Prix. Following the end of his Formula One career, Éric transitioned into racing sportscars.
He moved away from single-seater, open-wheel racing and began competing in closed-cockpit cars with more than one seat. His success in sportscars was impressive and he enjoyed a long and successful career in the discipline.
44. Stéphane Sarrazin
Stéphane Jean-Marc Sarrazin is a highly accomplished French professional racing driver. He has achieved success in multiple racing disciplines, including single-seater, sportscar and rallying.
He won the French Formula Renault championship in 1994 and went on to become a two-time Le Mans Series champion in 2007 and 2010. Sarrazin’s career in motorsport began in 1992 when he took part in the Formula Renault Campus France championship.
After winning the championship in 1994, he moved on to the Formula 3 Euroseries, where he became a regular podium finisher.
His success in single-seater racing earned him a spot in the Formula 3000 championship in 1997, and he went on to become the championship runner-up in 1999.In 2000, Sarrazin made the switch to sportscar racing, competing in the FIA GT Championship.
He won the championship in 2004 and went on to join the American Le Mans Series in 2006.
He won the championship in both 2007 and 2010, as well as the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2009. Sarrazin also has experience in rallying, having competed in the World Rally Championship from 2001 to 2005.
He achieved a best finish of third place in the 2004 Monte Carlo Rally, and took part in the Dakar Rally from 2008 to 2015, achieving a best finish of sixth place in 2010.In summary, Stéphane Jean-Marc Sarrazin is a highly successful and experienced French professional racing driver.
He has won championships in single-seater, sportscar and rallying disciplines, and has achieved success in a variety of prestigious competitions. He is certainly one of the most accomplished drivers in the motorsport world.
45. André Guelfi
André Guelfi was a French racing driver who was born in Mazagan, Morocco. He was a passionate and successful driver, and he was most known for his participation in the Formula One World Championship race on October 19th, 1958.
He was also well-known for his participation in many other non-championship Formula One races. Guelfi’s racing career was full of success, and he was highly respected in the racing world. He was a fierce competitor and was always willing to push himself and his car to the limit.
He had a great understanding of the technical aspects of car racing, which gave him an advantage on the track. Guelfi was able to compete against some of the best drivers in the world during his time.
He was always a favorite to win in any race he entered and his skill and determination were evident on the track. His passion for the sport of car racing was unparalleled and he was able to inspire many drivers and fans alike.
André Guelfi was a remarkable driver who left a lasting impression on the racing world. He was an example of hard work and dedication, and his legacy is still remembered by many today. He will always be remembered as one of the greats in the world of Formula One racing.
46. Yves Giraud-Cabantous
Yves Aristide Marius Giraud-Cabantous was a talented racing driver from France. He was born in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, giving him a strong sense of his home country and the drive to succeed.
Giraud-Cabantous was a Formula One driver from 1950 to 1953, competing in 13 World Championship Grands Prix and numerous non-Championship Formula One and Formula Two races. He was highly regarded as an incredible driver, often praised for his skill and determination.
His impressive career in Formula One gave him fame and recognition within the racing world and in France. Giraud-Cabantous was a great driver and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
47. Charles Pic
Charles Pic is a French former racing driver who spent two years in Formula One. He started his grand prix career with the Marussia F1 Team in 2012 and then moved to the Caterham F1 Team in 2013.
During this time, he earned several championship points and achieved a career-best finish of 10th at the 2012 United States Grand Prix.
He retired from Formula One at the end of the 2013 season but continued racing in other series such as the Formula Renault 3.5 Series and the FIA World Endurance Championship.
He has since retired from professional racing and is now working as an ambassador for the FIA World Rallycross Championship.
Conclusion
France has some of the best auto racing players in the world.
With the likes of Philippe Gache, Loic Duval, and Jean-Eric Vergne, all of whom have achieved considerable success in their respective fields, it is clear that the French have some of the best auto racing talent in the world.
As the sport continues to develop, it will be exciting to see what the next generation of French drivers will bring to the table.
