Allan Simonsen dies after Le Mans crash

Some awful, tragic news from Le Mans. Driver Allan Simonsen has died as a result of injuries sustained from a crash just 10 minutes after the start of this year’s race.

The Twitter biography of the Danish Aston Martin driver simply reads: “professional racing driver, living the dream”. Allan, who died following a shocking accident on the third lap of the Le Mans 24 Hours, will at least have been relishing the very last moments of his 35 years.

This was not his first race at Le Mans — that was 2007 — but it was set to be his most successful as part of a much fancied and extremely fast all-Danish team racing an Aston Martin Vantage in the GTE-Am class.

Le Mans is spooky when it’s wet. A pall hangs over the circuit as it disappears out into the French countryside and darkness. You can’t help but recognise the driver’s courage when it’s like this. Allan Simonsen’s accident is a reminder of why we should admire and never become blasé about that courage too. To his wife, young daughter and family and friends, we extend all our sympathy.

Aston Martin Racing Managing Director, John Gaw, said: "On behalf of all of us at Aston Martin Racing, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the individuals, and families whose friends or loved ones were involved in today's terrible tragedy." 

"Following the ACO's media statement concerning the tragic death of Aston Martin Racing driver Allan Simonsen, and at the specific request of his family, the team will continue to participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in tribute to Allan."