Boillot, Georges
Georges Boillot (3 litre Peugot) winning Coupe de ľ Auto, 1913.
Name/Title
Boillot, GeorgesEntry/Object ID
2025.1.104Description
Georges Boillot was born on August 3, 1884, in Valentigney, France, and was one of the greatest racing drivers of the pre-World War I era. A trained mechanic, he drove for Peugeot and helped establish the marque as a dominant force in Grand Prix racing. His most notable achievements included winning the 1910 Targa Florio and back-to-back French Grand Prix victories in 1912 and 1913, becoming the first driver to win France's premier race twice. He was also instrumental in the development and success of the revolutionary Peugeot L76, one of the most advanced racing cars of its time. Despite his remarkable success, Boillot's racing career was cut short by World War I. His final major race, the 1914 French Grand Prix, ended in disappointment when his car failed near the finish while he was battling for victory, and his lone Indianapolis 500 appearance resulted in a 14th-place finish after mechanical troubles. After the outbreak of war, he joined the French military, eventually becoming a fighter pilot. On May 19, 1916, he died from injuries sustained after his aircraft was shot down near Bar-le-Duc, France, at the age of 31. He is remembered as one of France's pioneering racing heroes and a leading figure of early Grand Prix competition.Collection
Simeone - PhotographCategory
Race Car Drivers, Indianapolis 500, French GP