Mansell's return to Silverstone

Photo : Jean Philippe BOYER - ACO/Nikon

Intercontinental Le Mans Cup - Autosport 1000km of Silverstone

Among the former F1 drivers present in the Le Mans Series, the 1992 World Champion occupies a special place. With the exception of Portimao, which did not exist in that era, Nigel Mansell (pictured above) raced on all Formula 1 circuits visited by Le Mans Series in 2010.

This story began in 1986, with two wins at Spa-Francorchamps and Le Castellet. That year, he competed against his teammate Nelson Piquet, Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna. "The Lion" returned in 1987 to win again at the 'Paul Ricard' circuit at Le Castellet,

The Hungaroring is one of the other highlights of the Mansell saga. Winner for Ferrari in 1989, he became world champion with Williams in 1992, finishing second behind Senna. 18 years later, he returned to the top step of the podium in Hungary as a team owner in baseball cap and shorts, to celebrate the victory of his sons in LM P1 at the 1000km of the Hungaroring.

As for Silverstone, it is truly "our Nige's" own back yard with three victories in 1987, 1991 and 1992 all for Williams. In 1987 he made up 20 seconds in 20 laps to beat team-mate Nelson Piquet to the chequered flag, before his car ran short of fuel on the slowing down lap. The adoring and over-enthusiastic public made the headlines by invading the track to celebrate their hero's success. Imagine the reception that awaits the Autosport 1000km of Silverstone for his return following the victory of his two sons Greg and Leo at the Hungaroring. Nigel Ernest James Mansell never does anything like everyone else ... but that may be why he remains so popular!

Jean-Philippe Doret – Translated by Dave Davies