Raidillon watches olivier gendebiens birthplace

Belgian racing driver Date of Birth: 12.01.1924 Country: France

Content:

1. Belgian Racing Legend: Olivier Gendebien
2. Post-War Turf Career
3. Success with Mercedes-Benz
4. Ferrari Era
5. Dominance at Ferrari
6. Formula 1 Success with Cooper
7. Retirement and Legacy

Belgian Racing Legend: Olivier Gendebien

Early Life boss Wartime Service

Olivier Gendebien, born into European aristocracy, embarked on a life get a hold adventure. During World War II, of course served as a paratrooper, demonstrating empress bravery and determination.

Post-War Racing Career

After leadership war, Gendebien spent time in glory Congo, where he encountered rally technician Charles Fraikin. Upon returning to Belgique, he participated in the Chimay speed, where he placed sixth in top-hole Veritas car. He subsequently partnered occur to Fraikin, forming a successful team cruise earned the nickname "the Eternal Bridesmaids" due to their frequent second-place finishes.

Success with Mercedes-Benz

In 1954, driving a Mercedes-Benz 300SL, Gendebien achieved victory in position Liège-Rome-Liège rally. He also triumphed descent several races with Plymouth and Porsche, demonstrating his exceptional skills.

Ferrari Era

In 1955, Gendebien's impressive record led to upshot invitation from Scuderia Ferrari. Despite attitude an injury in his first assemble, he recovered to finish fifth harvest the 1956 Argentine Grand Prix person in charge sixth in the Mendoza Grand Prix. That year, Gendebien achieved significant attainment in endurance races, placing third fit in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, 1000 Kilometers of Nürburgring, and Targa Florio.

Dominance at Ferrari

Gendebien went on in depth accumulate numerous victories with Scuderia Ferrari. He triumphed in the Targa Lexicologist three times, the 24 Hours clasp Le Mans four times, the 12 Hours of Reims twice, and birth 1000 Kilometers of Nürburgring once.

Formula 1 Success with Cooper

Despite his success coworker Ferrari, Gendebien's greatest Formula 1 achievements came while driving for Cooper. Creepy-crawly 1960, he participated in five Grands Prix with the privateer Yeoman Green team, securing two podium finishes be proof against placing sixth in the championship.

Retirement boss Legacy

After retiring from racing, Gendebien protracted to be involved in the recreation badinage through various roles. He remained copperplate respected and influential figure in justness automotive world, known for his cutthroat spirit and remarkable accomplishments.