Robert Manzon, French racing driver (d. 2015)

Robert Manzon, a distinguished French racing driver whose career spanned a pivotal era in motorsport, was born on 12 April 1917. He left an indelible mark on the nascent years of the Formula One World Championship before his passing on 19 January 2015, a life well-lived that saw him connect the earliest days of Grand Prix racing to the modern age.

A Pioneer of Formula One

Manzon's journey into the highest echelon of motor racing began with the very first Formula One World Championship season in 1950. Amidst the post-war reconstruction and the rekindling of European motorsport, a new global championship was born, and Manzon was right there at its inception. He made his Grand Prix debut on 21 May 1950, stepping onto the grid at the legendary Monaco Grand Prix. Throughout his career, which primarily saw him driving for the plucky French Gordini team – a national hero outfit often competing against larger, better-funded marques – Manzon participated in a remarkable 29 Formula One World Championship Grands Prix. His dedication and raw talent shone through, allowing him to secure two podium finishes, a significant achievement in an era known for its extreme challenges, mechanical fragility, and the sheer bravery required of its drivers. Over his Formula One tenure, he accumulated a total of 16 championship points, a respectable tally considering the highly competitive landscape and the different scoring systems of the time.

Manzon's Enduring Legacy

Beyond the statistics of his racing career, Robert Manzon held a truly unique and poignant place in motorsport history. At the time of his death in 2015, he was revered as the last surviving driver to have taken part in the inaugural Formula One World Championship season in 1950. This remarkable distinction underscored his direct connection to the very origins of what would become a global sporting phenomenon. Manzon was a living link to the pioneering spirit of early Grand Prix racing, bridging the gap between an era of raw courage and groundbreaking innovation and the sophisticated, high-tech sport we know today. His longevity and his presence at the dawn of F1 made him a cherished figure, a testament to an era when racing was perhaps at its most visceral and human.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Robert Manzon born and when did he pass away?

Robert Manzon was born on 12 April 1917 and passed away on 19 January 2015.

How many Formula One Grands Prix did Robert Manzon participate in?

He participated in 29 Formula One World Championship Grands Prix during his career.

What were Robert Manzon's notable achievements in Formula One?

Manzon achieved two podium finishes and scored a total of 16 championship points during his Formula One career.

What was Robert Manzon's unique historical significance?

At the time of his death, Robert Manzon held the unique distinction of being the last surviving driver to have competed in the very first Formula One World Championship season in 1950.

Which teams did Robert Manzon primarily race for in Formula One?

Robert Manzon primarily raced for the French Gordini team throughout much of his Formula One career, though he also had brief stints with other privateer entries.