On a recent trip to France to top up the Classic Heroes stock list, we couldn’t resist making a little detour to Reims; home of the historic GP track – Circuit de Gueux. The famous old course and part derelict race buildings now stand as a monument to the thrilling road races that were hosted at the circuit during the fifties and sixties. It’s a special place for most racing enthusiasts and holds its own unique sense of atmosphere.
For those of you too young to remember the track in its heyday, The Circuit de Gueux was established in 1926, with Formula One races taking place from 1950 until 1966. The track was finally closed in 1972, but the ghostly stands provide a nostalgic reminder of the glamorous and exciting era of drivers such as Jack Brabham, Jim Clark, Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio.
Les Amis du Circuit de Gueux, are a group of hardworking motor enthusiasts who have done an incredible job clearing the undergrowth and restoring these iconic race stands and whilst there is still a way to go, they are gradually being returned to their former glory. It is a haunting place where you can almost smell the petrol and hear the roar of the engines.
The restoration team have three principal aims:
-To maintain the legend of the circuit -To safeguard it’s structures -To welcome to the site classic vehicles and all who have a passion for the circuit
So if you ever find yourself near Reims, please remember this is a region of France that is not only famous for Champagne but also for it’s motor racing history. Make sure you take a little detour to the Circuit de Gueux as it is well worth a visit.
The pictures below show the circuit on a sunny day in May 2012 plus some old black and white images of races held at the circuit in it’s heyday. We have also included some photo’s of the stands before the restoration work that has been undertaken to date. We think you will agree with us that the guys are doing a fantastic job.
If you are interested in finding out more about the restoration project you can visit www.amis-du-circuit-de-gueux.fr (there is a GB button in the top left corner, which will translate it into english)”
