Danish driver Allan Simonsen died in a high-speed crash at the famous Le Mans 24 Hour endurance race, organizers said Saturday. Simonsen, 34, one of the most experienced sports car drivers in the world, was competing for Aston Martin in the GTE-Am class. He was at the wheel -- less than 10 minutes into the race -- when his car left the circuit on the Tertre Rouge corner and crashed heavily into the safety barriers. Simonsen's family was told by Aston Martin Racing's principal, David Richards, but the team, which is mounting a major challenge at this year's race with five entries across the two GTE Pro and Am classes, said it would continue racing with the family's consent.
John Gaw, Aston Martin Racing's managing director described the incident as a "terrible tragedy". No further statements were expected while the accident is under investigation and the cars continued to race on despite the tragic circumstances. Aston Martin's remaining cars were one and two in GTE Pro and in seventh place in GTE Am, with Richards stating as the race continued into the night: "The team is, of course, deeply saddened by the loss of one of our drivers, however we are as focused as ever to win this race, but we are now racing to win for Allan.
This article is more than 8 years old. Aston Martin driver left track at speed after nine minutes He died shortly afterwards of injuries at medical centre on site. Aston Martin Racing Managing Director, John Gaw, said: "On behalf of all of us at Aston Martin Racing, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the individuals, and families whose friends or loved ones were involved in today's terrible tragedy. Aston Martin Racing will not make any further comment until the precise circumstances of the accident have been determined.
Next of kin have been informed. Following the ACO's media statement concerning the tragic death of Aston Martin Racing driver Allan Simonsen, and at the specific request of his family, the team will continue to participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in tribute to Allan.
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