Story of ’09: Brabham’s perfect timing
David Brabham was one of Australia's stand-out contenders on the International front in 2009
David Brabham won’t forget 2009 in a hurry.
The ex-pat Aussie won the Le Mans 24 Hour and the American Le Mans Series in the year that his famous racing family was celebrating the 50th anniversary of his dad (Sir Jack’s) first Formula 1 world title.
It was a busy, diverse and historic season.
Brabham won the Le Mans 24 Hour driving for the factory Peugeot team. He was partnered by Spaniard Marc Gene and Austrian Alex Wurz, leading Peugeot to a 1-2 result. Remarkably, David’s brother Geoff was behind the wheel at Le Mans the last time Peugeot took overall honors in the classic race in 1993.
If winning the world’s greatest Sportscar endurance race wasn’t enough, then leading the Patrón Highcroft team to victory in the ALMS was the icing on the cake.
Along with team-mate Scott Sharp, the pair won the title, only needing to complete 70 percent of the last race at Laguna Seca. Despite minor damage and an electrical glitch, the pair finished third and wrapped up the title.
It truly was a big year for Brabham – and Speedcafe.com.au nominates him as its International Story of 2009.
“This has been an unbelievable year for me. Winning the Le Mans 24 Hours was fantastic but it also means a lot to take the ALMS title,” he said.
“I’m delighted to win both Le Mans and now the ALMS title during what is a special time for the entire family and something else to be proud of.”