Abecassis, George
Name/Title
Abecassis, GeorgeEntry/Object ID
2025.1.20Description
George Edgar Abecassis was born on March 21, 1913, in Oatlands, Surrey, England, and died on December 18, 1991, in Ibstone, Buckinghamshire, England. He was a British racing driver best known as the co-founder of the HWM (Hersham and Walton Motors) Formula One team. Abecassis began his racing career in 1935 with a modified Austin Seven and quickly made a name for himself in English club racing during the late 1930s. His most notable pre-war success came in 1939 when he won the Imperial Trophy Formula Libre race at Crystal Palace, defeating Prince Bira in difficult wet conditions. He also held lap records at Brooklands and Prescott Hill Climb, showcasing his skill and speed. During World War II, he served as a Royal Air Force pilot, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery. His post-war career was marked by both achievements and limitations. Abecassis competed in two Formula One World Championship Grands Prix (1951 and 1952) but did not score points, wins, or podiums. However, he found greater success in endurance racing, finishing 5th overall at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1950 and 1951, and securing a class win in 1950 with Aston Martin. As co-founder of HWM, he played a crucial role in nurturing young talent, including Stirling Moss, though the team struggled financially and technically against larger manufacturers. Despite limited success in Formula One, Abecassis left a lasting legacy as a pioneer of British motorsport, combining his racing achievements with his contributions to car development and team management For more information check out these links F1 Forgotten Drivers – George Abecassis OldRacingCars.com – George AbecassisCollection
Simeone - PhotographCategory
Race Car Drivers