The Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) has confirmed that Danish driver Allan Simonsen has succumbed to injuries suffered in a crash in the early laps of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Simonsen was leading the LMGTE Am class in the #95 Aston Martin Racing Vantage after starting the race on pole position. However, entering Tertre Rouge – potentially after running on to kerbs dampened due to rain showers – the car spun to the left of the track, impacting the barriers.
The race was immediately put under safety car conditions and Simonsen was extricated from the car and taken to the circuit medical centre where he passed away due to his injuries.
Aston Martin Racing released the following statement:
It is with great shock and sadness that the Aston Martin Racing Team confirms that an accident occurred shortly after the start of the 24 Hours of Le Mans at around 1509hrs CET today (22 June) when the No 95 Vantage GTE driven by Allan Simonsen left the track at Tertre Rouge.
Tragically, and despite the best efforts of the emergency services in attendance, Allan’s injuries proved fatal.
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.”
