Monteverde Wins 2009 Le Mans Legend in Ferrari 250 LM
Carlos Monteverde took victory in the 2009 Le Mans Legend support race, leading home a field of 61 historic sports cars at Circuit de la Sarthe.
The 2009 Le Mans Legend race took place on 13 June 2009 as a support event to the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. This historic race attracted a field of 61 classic sports-racing cars, each representing the golden era of endurance racing between 1949 and 1965. The event is known for bringing together vehicles with genuine Le Mans history, offering a unique spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Overview of the 2009 Le Mans Legend Race
Podium Finishers and Race Highlights
Carlos Monteverde, driving a Ferrari 250 LM under Brazilian colours, secured victory after a strong performance at the front of the field. Monteverde maintained his lead throughout the race, demonstrating both speed and consistency. He was followed by Justin Law, who drove a Jaguar Lister GT representing Great Britain, and Tony Dron, who completed the podium in a Ferrari 246S.
- 1st: Ferrari 250 LM, Carlos Monteverde (BR)
- 2nd: Jaguar Lister GT, Justin Law (GB)
- 3rd: Ferrari 246S, Tony Dron (GB)
The diversity of the podium underscored the international appeal of the event, with both British and Italian marques represented at the front. The grid included notable entries from Ferrari, Jaguar, and Aston Martin, among others, reflecting the rich history of manufacturers that have competed at Le Mans over the decades.
Historic Significance and Entrants
The Le Mans Legend is a highlight for fans attending the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as it features cars that originally raced at the circuit in period. Many vehicles in the 2009 field had previously competed in the famous endurance race, making the event a living tribute to motorsport heritage. The 61-car grid was one of the largest seen at the Le Mans Legend, with entries spanning well-known models and rare examples alike.
Entrants included a variety of sports-racing cars, from sleek Ferraris to powerful Jaguars and classic Aston Martins. The event provided a rare opportunity for these machines to return to racing conditions on the iconic Circuit de la Sarthe, giving spectators a taste of racing from a bygone era. The atmosphere was enhanced by the authenticity of the cars and the skill of their drivers, many of whom are experienced historic racers or collectors with a deep appreciation for the event’s legacy.
Legacy of the 2009 Race
The 2009 Le Mans Legend continued the tradition of celebrating the history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. By assembling a competitive and varied field, the race served as a reminder of the technological and sporting achievements that have defined endurance racing. For participants and fans, the event remains a cherished part of the Le Mans weekend, offering both nostalgia and excitement before the main 24-hour contest begins.
