F1Weekly Podcast # 1092

Play Podcast: 04-28-25f1weekly1092.mp3

No Formula 1 ® this week so, were going to do what Max does and say as little as possible. This means more classic interviews with Nasir Hameed. This week: Sir Stirling Moss from his home in Florida.

Between the 1951 24 Hours of Le Mans, where Sir Stirling Moss established a new lap record as a rookie, and 1961, the year of his 10th and final participation in the race, Moss carved out a remarkable career in multiple motorsport disciplines. Though highly competitive and immensely talented, the British driver never claimed the top step on the 24 Hours overall podium nor won a world title in F1. Still, he will forever be recognized as a legend in the world of auto racing.

Moss’ track record at Le Mans is as follows: 10 participations, seven retirements, two second place finishes and a volontary withdrawal (chosen by Mercedes in 1955 as a result of the devastating accident that marred that running of the race). Moss’ cars were often among the favorites: various Jaguars, the XK 120 C, the D-Type, the iconic Mercedes 300SLR, the Ferrari 250GT, the Aston Martin DB3S and DBR1, and the Maserati 450S. Though he had competed in Formula 1, Moss adapted perfectly to the requirements of endurance racing, namely sharing one’s car. At the 24 Hours, he developed certain skills, such as the challenging Le Mans-style start. Danger was no deterrent to Moss. He has openly acknowledged the thrill of its difficulty. A few years ago, Moss had this to say:

“The atmosphere of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1950s was fantastic, with everyone who came, camping out overnight at the circuit…There is no doubt racing exists to help cars evolve. And I believe as far as that is concerned, a race like the 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the biggest contributors there is.”

Nasir was surprised when he got the email from Sir Stirling Moss’s people that the interview was approved!