Celebrating 85 Years of Racing Excellence: Porsche Honors Gérard Larrousse

On May 23, 2025, Porsche celebrated the 85th birthday of Gérard Larrousse, a legendary figure in motorsport known for his remarkable achievements on both rally stages and racetracks. His career, marked by precision and determination, has left an indelible mark on the world of racing.

Key Takeaways

• Gérard Larrousse was born on May 23, 1940, in Lyon, France.

• He became a professional racing driver in 1966 and joined Porsche in 1969.

• Larrousse won the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice and numerous other prestigious races.

• He transitioned to team management after retiring from driving, contributing to motorsport in various capacities.

Early Life And Career

Gérard Gilles Marie Armand Larrousse was born in Lyon, where he developed a passion for motorsport early on. After studying economics, he began participating in rallies in his early twenties. His military service in a special unit for high-speed vehicles further honed his skills.

In 1966, Larrousse made the pivotal decision to pursue racing professionally. He started as an official works driver for NSU France and later joined Automobiles Alpine, where he quickly made a name for himself by winning the Tour de Corse rally and finishing second in the European Rally Championship in 1969.

Joining Porsche

Larrousse's career took a significant turn when he joined the Porsche works team in 1969, recommended by fellow driver Vic Elford. His debut year was marked by a near victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he and co-driver Hans Herrmann fell just 120 meters short of the win, a moment that solidified his reputation as a fierce competitor.

In 1971, he achieved notable success by winning the 12 Hours of Sebring alongside Vic Elford in the Porsche 917, followed by a victory at the Nürburgring in the 908/03 Spyder. His prowess continued as he secured two Le Mans victories in 1973 and 1974 with Henri Pescarolo in a Matra-Simca.

A Legacy Beyond Driving

After retiring from competitive racing, Larrousse remained deeply involved in motorsport. He took on management roles, including leading the Formula 1 team Larrousse Calmels, which he co-founded in 1986. His transition from driver to team manager showcased his vision and understanding of the sport beyond just driving.

Larrousse's contributions to Porsche and motorsport are characterized by values such as precision, passion, and a commitment to excellence. He is remembered not only for his driving skills but also for his strategic insights and leadership.

Continuing Connection With Porsche

Even at 85, Gérard Larrousse maintains a close relationship with Porsche. He is a respected figure in the motorsport community and often shares his experiences and insights with fans and journalists. His participation in events like the Tour de Corse Historique in 2015 highlights his enduring legacy and connection to the brand.

As Porsche celebrates Larrousse's 85th birthday, they honor a man whose career embodies the spirit of the brand—courageous, precise, and passionate. His journey through the world of motorsport serves as an inspiration for future generations of drivers and enthusiasts alike.