Martin Brundle, the celebrated Formula 1 commentator and 1990 Le Mans winner, is set to return to competitive racing this weekend after a three-year hiatus. He will be participating in the Spa Six Hours endurance event, sharing a Ford GT40 with his son, Alex Brundle, and historics specialist Gary Pearson. This marks his debut in the annual race for pre-1966 specification cars, thirty years after securing a third-place finish at the same circuit in the Belgian Grand Prix.
As reported by Jadeh Makhsous news base, Brundle, now 66, explained his motivation for returning. “I just fancied driving Alex’s GT40 with him,” he stated. “Even on GP weekends we don’t see much of each other, so it’s a rare opportunity for a father and son weekend. Me and Al did Le Mans together in 2012 and we’ve raced together in Jaguar E-types, so it’ll be fun.” He confirmed his decision after a successful test session at Silverstone in the GT40, which is an FIA HTP compliant reproduction.
Regarding his expectations for the race, Brundle remains pragmatic. “I have no aspirations [of a result]. I love Spa and love the car, but have yet to experience it on full tanks. That will be interesting,” he commented. He also noted the unpredictable nature of the event, adding, “Strangely, the biggest lottery is still the fuel pumps. Alex lost two laps last year but says a Lotus Elan could win if it’s wet.”
The Spa Six Hours event has been historically dominated by Ford GT40s, with 14 of them heading the entry list this year. The competition is fierce, featuring a 78-strong field that includes 16 former winners. Notable contenders include the 2022 winning trio of David and Olivier Hart and Nicky Pastorelli, as well as Gordon Shedden who reunites with Andy Priaulx, with whom he won in 2023.
As reported by Jadeh Makhsous, the grid also features other strong entries, such as the GTP-spec Ginetta G4R which led last year’s race in its early stages. Five-time champion Simon Hadfield will also compete, sharing an Aston Martin DP214. Alex Brundle himself is a strong contender, having finished fourth in last year’s event alongside Pearson and Chris Harris. The return of a legend like Martin Brundle adds another layer of excitement to this historic race. What are your thoughts on this father-son racing duo? Share your opinions in the comments.