The Marseille Grand Prix

Hi Charlie! By now you probably know that I love Formula One, but I’m sure you didn’t know that our beautiful city used to have a Grand Prix. Yes, my article will be about the

1. The Grand Prix's ID

The Marseille GP was created in 1932 and last raced in 1952, during the tenth edition. Its proceeds were used to finance the city's social works or to raise funds for the Entraide Française. The race started in front of the Hippodrome Borély stands before reaching the Parc, along the fountains and passing in front of the castle. Hay bales served as protection for the cars. Beyond the Borély-Prado circuit, the race was also held at the Miramas Autodrome, especially in the first 4 editions. The event was part of the 1932, 1933, 1946, 1947 and 1949 secondary calendar of the Grand Prix automobile, the forerunner of the Formula 1 World Championship. With the creation of the F1 World Championship in 1950, the 1950, 1951 and 1952 editions were run in Formula 2.

2. Palmarès

The Marseille circuit will bear the name of J(ean) P(ierre) Wimille, considered the best driver of his time and one of the greatest French drivers of all time. A plaque installed at Parc Borely pays tribute to the driver and recalls the history of this improbable circuit.

<- I couldn't find the picture in English

 

    III. The return of a motor racing circuit in Marseille

In 2018, Formula One Management organised an FIA Formula E demonstration in Marseille in front of 10,000 people, with a circuit created for the occasion in the Old Port. It was a first in Marseille, as part of the return of the France Grand Prix to Le Castellet, but also a highly criticised show at the time given its cost and a growing movement against the automobile's place in the city.

On June 22, 2018, Marseille hosted the Formula 1 Festival. The Vieux-Port was transformed into a circuit for a few hours, offering spectators a unique spectacle. Former legendary drivers such as Franck Montagny and David Coulthard, gave driving demonstrations.

Thanks for reading!

If I opened your curiosity, here are the links to short videos about events that I mentioned in my article:

Formula One show

The 1950 GP (extract from a 1950 documentary, Frangio in Marsella)

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