Derek Bell: from Ferrari F1 debut at Monza to five Le Mans wins

A whirlwind rise to Formula 1 with its most famous team in the 1960s, and one of the greatest sportscar racing drivers in the world during the ‘70s and ‘80s, Derek Bell has established an incredible legacy in motorsport.

Speaking to Tom Clarkson, Derek talks about being personally picked by Enzo Ferrari to make his Formula 1 debut for the team at their home race and what it was like going out for dinner with Ferrari’s founding father.

While he only registered one championship point during his F1 career, Derek went on to have incredible success elsewhere – winning five Le Mans, three Daytona 24 races and two World Sportscar Championships.

Derek explains why he achieved so much in sportscars, particularly alongside Belgium’s former F1 driver Jacky Ickx, and what it was like helping to make the Le Mans movie with Hollywood icon Steve McQueen.

This episode is sponsored by: 

Babbel: right now, Babbel is offering our listeners up to 60% on their subscription. Go to babbel.com/GRID to claim your discount.