Derek Bell

Derek Reginald Bell MBE is a British racing driver who achieved legendary status in endurance racing, particularly at Le Mans and Daytona. Born on October 31, 1941, in Pinner, England, Bell's career spanned over three decades of top-level motorsport competition.

Bell won the 24 Hours of Le Mans five times, with victories spanning from 1975 to 1987. His partnership with Jacky Ickx yielded three victories, and he later won twice with Hans-Joachim Stuck, Al Holbert, and other co-drivers. Bell's smooth, mechanical-sympathetic driving style made him ideal for the demanding prototype cars of the era.

At the 24 Hours of Daytona, Bell claimed three victories, further cementing his status as an endurance racing master. He was awarded an MBE in 1986 for his services to motorsport. Bell raced in Formula One and won the World Sportscar Championship twice. His gentlemanly demeanor and exceptional talent made him one of the most respected figures in racing history.