Le Mans

Derek Bell MBE is one of the most celebrated and legendary motorsport drivers in history. He is best known for his remarkable five victories at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans (1975, 1981, 1982, 1986, 1987), a feat that cemented his place among the greatest racing drivers of his generation.Bell also claimed three victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona and two wins at the 12 Hours of Sebring, establishing himself as one of the all-time greats. During his career, he drove for some of the sport's most iconic teams and manufacturers, including Porsche and Ferrari.Away from the track, Bell has become a much-loved ambassador for motorsport, renowned for his warmth, charm, and enthusiasm for the racing world he dedicated his life to. He was awarded an MBE in 1986 for his services to motor racing.After graduating from university with a History degree, he joined Motoring News in 1990 as its junior rally reporter. He was the newspaper’s editor by the end of 1997. Editorships of F1 Racing and Motor Sport magazines followed. Turning freelance in 2005, he has written about numerous other sports. But always he returns to his beloved motor racing. He lives in France with his author/illustrator wife Jan – plus five cats and goats, and two dogs and donkeys.

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