Allan Simonsen (July 5 1978-June 22, 2013)
Today as the Le Mans 24hr continues, we remember Danish racing driver Allan Simonsen, known to many as The Great Dane. His driving list of accomplishments far outweighs his years of age. Allan had run at the 24 Hour of Le Mans seven times before today’s green flag. He was the 2007 Australian GT Champion and 2009 Asian Le Mans GT2 champion. This year was his second year for Aston Martin Racing as a driver for Aston’s Young Driver program in the WEC. Allan was known also long many frequent flier miles as he was a active competitor in V8 Supercar enduros, Nuburgring 24 Hour, Spa 24 Hour. In 2012 he competed in seven different forms of racing. From racing down under at Bathurst and V8 SuperCar enduro’s, Asian Carrera Cup, British GT Championship, ADAC GT Masters, and WEC GTE-AM for Aston Martin Racing. He logged down 82 wins and 50 poles over these varies series. He is survived by his wife Carina and his daughter Mie-Mia who was born in 2012. His death marks the first racing death since 1986 at Le Mans. In 1997 another driver died during free practice crash in a similar location of the track.
Simonsen’s Family has asked Aston Martin Racing to keep the 4 other cars racing at today’s 24 Hours of Le Mans as a tribute to Allan.
On behalf of all of us at RFD, we send our deepest condolences to the Simonsen’s family. Best of wishes to everyone during this most difficult of times. GO ASTON MARTIN!
