Jacky Ickx: the striking Brabançon

Born in Brussels in 1945, Jacky Ickx is one of the most romantic and complete figures in the history of motorsport. A Formula 1 driver — six Grand Prix wins, world runner-up in 1969 and 1970 — but also an outstanding endurance driver, he swept through all disciplines like an elegant tornado. His speed was obvious, but it was his approach to racing as a way of life that made him a unique character.

The 1969 gesture

At the start of Le Mans, tradition required drivers to run to their cars. Ickx, who had seen a friend die in an accident caused by a poorly fastened seatbelt, refused. He walked calmly. He fastened his seatbelt carefully. And he ended up winning the race by a hundred meters after a thrilling final battle against Hans Herrmann in his Porsche. A lesson: precision is better than haste.

The warriors of Le Mans

A courage of endurance

These drivers from the golden era shared an essential quality: the ability to maintain their focus and speed hour after hour, in often uncomfortable cars, in all weather conditions. It was a different kind of courage than that of Formula 1 sprinters — a courage of endurance, continuity, and total commitment. At Carrera Café, this philosophy is celebrated with every service.