Raymond Sommer

Raymond Sommer (August 31, 1906 - September 10, 1950): A French racing driver from Mouzon, Ardennes, Sommer was one of the most versatile and successful drivers of his generation. He competed in five Formula One World Championship Grands Prix in 1950, the inaugural championship season, before his tragic death at the non-championship Haute-Garonne Grand Prix. Before Formula One, Sommer won the 1932 and 1933 24 Hours of Le Mans and achieved numerous victories in Grand Prix racing during the 1930s and 1940s. Known for his independent spirit, Sommer often entered his own cars rather than driving for factory teams.

His aggressive but calculated driving style and deep mechanical knowledge made him a formidable competitor. His death at age 44 robbed motorsport of one of its great characters during the sport's transition to the modern World Championship era.