Celebrate Jacky Ickx: Racing Legend and Porsche Icon Turns 80
Jacky Ickx, celebrated for his exceptional versatility as a racing driver and mastery of wet-weather conditions, played a pivotal role in Porsche’s racing triumphs during the 1970s and 1980s. As the Belgian-born former racing star approaches his 80th birthday on 1 January 2025, we take a moment to reflect on his significant impact on the world of motorsport.
His tenure at Porsche exemplifies the successful collaboration between drivers and automotive brands. Ickx secured victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans six times, impressively winning four of these races with Porsche. “We wish Jacky Ickx all the best and thank him for his contributions to Porsche’s storied history in motor racing,” says Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board, Research and Development at Porsche. Steiner praises Ickx for his driving prowess, passion, pursuit of excellence, and humility—qualities that Porsche still upholds.
Born on 1 January 1945 in Brussels, Jacques Bernard Ickx, Jacky, was initially influenced by his father, Jacques Ickx, a motorsport journalist. Starting with motorcycles, Jacky Ickx first shone in motocross and Formula 2, where he clinched the Formula 2 European championship in 1967. His early twenties saw him entering Formula 1 with Ferrari, where he quickly established himself as a master of wet-weather racing, achieving his first Grand Prix victory in Rouen. He eventually amassed eight Grand Prix wins across teams like Ferrari, Brabham, and Lotus.
After Formula 1, Ickx focused on endurance races. In his first year with Porsche, he won three races in the World Championship for Makes and four in the World Sportscar Championship. His performance at the 1977 Le Mans, where he staged a dramatic comeback to win after overcoming significant setbacks, remains one of the most memorable moments of his career.
In addition to his racing achievements, Ickx played a crucial role in developing the Porsche 956, offering valuable input from a driver’s perspective that influenced the design of the cockpit and monocoque. His participation in the Paris-Dakar Rally as a driver for Mercedes-Benz in 1983 and later for Porsche further underscored his adaptability and determination.
Today, as a father of five, Ickx remains a prominent figure associated with Porsche, often appearing at events, partnering as a test driver, and engaging with the Porsche Heritage and Museum team. His legacy continues to resonate, exemplified by his active involvement in recommissioning the 959 Paris-Dakar vehicle alongside Claude Brasseur.
Jacky Ickx’s enduring connection to Porsche and diverse motorsport skills exemplify a legacy of excellence and commitment, making him a true racing icon. As he celebrates his 80th birthday, the motorsport world honours his extraordinary career and lasting influence on the racing community.
