André Guelfi, French race car driver (d. 2016)

André Guelfi, born on May 6, 1919, in the bustling coastal city of Mazagan, French Morocco (known today as El Jadida), embarked on a life that stretched almost a century, leaving behind a unique mark as a French racing driver. His journey through motorsport, though not extensively long in the pinnacle of Formula One, secured him a distinctive historical position, particularly towards the end of his remarkably long life.

Early Life and Racing Beginnings

Born into a vibrant port city during the era of the French Protectorate in Morocco, Guelfi's formative years were undoubtedly shaped by a rich tapestry of cultural influences. While specific details of his early life remain largely private, his undeniable passion for speed and competitive spirit eventually propelled him onto the demanding circuits of motor racing. Before his brief appearance in the world of Formula One, he actively participated in a variety of national and international racing events, diligently honing his driving skills against the backdrop of post-World War II European motorsport.

His Brief Foray into Formula One

Guelfi's most prominent moment in the global racing spotlight arrived with his participation in a singular Formula One World Championship race. This significant event took place on October 19, 1958, at the Moroccan Grand Prix, held on the challenging Ain-Diab Circuit located near Casablanca. It was, fittingly, a return to his birthplace region for his championship debut. Driving a Cooper-Climax under the banner of the Scuderia Centro Sud team, Guelfi's race unfortunately concluded prematurely when he was forced to retire due to a fuel pump issue. Although his official World Championship career statistics record only this one entry, his engagement with the sport extended to numerous non-championship Formula One races. These events were a common and integral part of the motorsport calendar during that period, providing valuable additional opportunities for drivers to compete outside the official Grand Prix schedule and further develop their craft.

A Distinguished Elder Statesman of Motorsport

In his later years, André Guelfi garnered a distinctive honor within the global Formula One community. Following the passing of fellow racing driver Robert La Caze on July 1, 2015, Guelfi inherited the esteemed title of the oldest living Formula One driver. He proudly held this unique distinction until his own passing on June 28, 2016, just a few weeks shy of his 97th birthday. This remarkable longevity underscored his enduring connection to the sport and established him as a living link to the pioneering era of motorsport, bridging generations of enthusiasts and competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions About André Guelfi

Who was André Guelfi?

André Guelfi was a French racing driver, born in Mazagan (modern-day El Jadida), French Morocco, who lived from May 6, 1919, until June 28, 2016. He is best remembered for his brief Formula One career and for holding the distinction of being the oldest living Formula One driver at the time of his death.

What was his Formula One career like?

He participated in one official Formula One World Championship race, which was the 1958 Moroccan Grand Prix, where he drove for the Scuderia Centro Sud team. He also competed in several non-championship Formula One events, a common practice for drivers in that era.

Where was André Guelfi born?

André Guelfi was born in Mazagan, which was then part of French Morocco. This city is now known as El Jadida and is a notable port on Morocco's Atlantic coast.

What made him particularly notable towards the end of his life?

From July 1, 2015, until his passing on June 28, 2016, André Guelfi held the unique distinction of being the oldest living Formula One driver, a title he inherited after the death of Robert La Caze.

How many F1 World Championship races did he enter?

André Guelfi entered and participated in one official Formula One World Championship race: the 1958 Moroccan Grand Prix.