Eric Thompson (racing driver)

Eric Thompson (* November 4, 1919 in Ditton Hill, Surrey ) is a retired British racing driver.

Career

Thompson was a negotiator and a typical example of an opportunity racer. His only appearance in Formula 1, he had the Grand Prix of Great Britain in 1952, where he finished fifth after all, on a Connaught Type A. For smaller Formula 2 race in the UK in 1953 he could still celebrate two victories ( the AMOC (Aston Martin Owner's Club ) races and the Redex Trophy, both at Snetterton. )

Great successes have been achieved Thompson at sports car racing. As a factory driver for Aston Martin, he was 1950-1955 regularly in the 24- hour race at Le Mans at the start. His debut in this long-distance race in 1949 he had played on a 1500 HRG Le Mans Lightweight and with his compatriot Jack Fairman reached eighth place in the overall standings. In 1951 he reached with Lance Macklin on a factory Aston Martin DB2 with the third overall a place on the podium.

In 1953 he was in the World Sportscar Championship scoring RAC Tourist Trophy runner-up. Together with Reginald Parnell, he had only his Aston Martin team mate Peter Collins and Pat Griffith narrowly beaten. Two weeks earlier, he had won with Kenneth McAlpine on an Aston Martin DB3S the 9- hour race at Goodwood.

Later, Thompson staff at Aston Martin and publisher of motorsport books. He now lives in Guildford, Surrey.

Le Mans results

  • Formula 1 racing driver ( UK )
  • Drivers in the 24 Hours of Le Mans
  • World Sports Car Championship racer
  • Briton
  • Born in 1919
  • Man
Connaught Engineering 1952 Formula One season Fastest lap Formula Two Reg Parnell Peter Collins (racing driver) 1949 24 Hours of Le Mans 1950 24 Hours of Le Mans 1951 24 Hours of Le Mans 1952 24 Hours of Le Mans 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans Dennis Poore 1954 24 Hours of Le Mans 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans
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