Sad news has reached The Garage that long time racer, automotive writer and engineer Paul Frere has passed away at the age of 91. He had been injured in a crash while testing for Road & Track and while he recovered from his injuries, he was never quite the same. Frere began his racing career on two wheels following World War 2, moving to cars a short time later. In 1952, Frere took part in his first Grand Prix and would go on to race 11 times in the pinnacle of motorsports. Perhaps the highlight of his career as a driver was in 1960 when he won Le Mans, co-driving with Olivier Gendebien. Perhaps Frere’s biggest accomplishment was his journalistic career, through which he was able to touch millions of enthusiasts with his experience and insight.
A couple of months before his crash, friend of The Garage Alois Ruf had told tales of driving with Frere. Alois said that Paul was a bit unstable on his feet, but that even at 90 he was more agile than most 20 year olds behind the wheel.
We have lost another great one.
