500 Daytona 1965 Winner Fred Lorenzen Dies

“Golden Boy” Fred Lorenzen passed away on December 18, 2024, a few days before his 90th birthday. A look back at his career.

Published 28/12/2024 à 11:00

Valentin GLO

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500 Daytona 1965 Winner Fred Lorenzen Dies

Fred Lorenzen, nicknamed the "Golden Boy", "Elmhurst Express", "Fast Freddie" or "Fearless Freddie" is an emblematic figure in the history of the NASCARA talented and charismatic driver, he marked the 1960s with his spectacular performances on oval circuits, becoming one of the first superstars of American motorsport. His career, although relatively short, left an indelible mark on the history of the discipline.

« Fred Lorenzen was one of NASCAR's first true superstars. A fan favorite, he helped NASCAR grow from its early roots, said Jim France, NASCAR chairman and CEO.. Fred was the perfect NASCAR star, helping to bring the sport to the silver screen, which further increased NASCAR’s popularity in its early years. For many years, NASCAR’s “Golden Boy” was also its role model of excellence, a fact that ultimately led him to the pinnacle of the sport, a rightful place in the NASCAR Hall of Fame. On behalf of the France family and all of NASCAR, I want to extend our condolences to the friends and family of Fred Lorenzen. »

A Miraculous Phone Call

Born on December 30, 1934, in Elmhurst, Illinois, about 30 miles west of the Chicago Loop, Fred Lorenzen became interested in motorsports at a young age. He began his career driving dragsters in local races at age 19, where he quickly demonstrated a natural talent for speed and control. His rise through the ranks of motorsports was meteoric, and in 1956, he entered his first NASCAR race.

However, it was in 1960, when he joined the Holman-Moody team, that Lorenzen's career took a decisive turn. This team, one of the most prestigious of the time, provided Lorenzen with a high-performance Ford Galaxie that became the perfect tool to exploit his talent. "CThis is the greatest day of my life. A miracle, that's what it was. " Lorenzen told TNT Sports in 2009 about the Christmas Eve phone call he got offering to join the team. Everybody expects it, but you make your own way. I earned it, I guess. That's what Ralph (Moody) said, you're there because they want you. They like the way you raced, the way you drive. You don't jump in front, you calm down and wait, you take your time. »

26 victories in the premier class

Between 1962 and 1967, he accumulated 26 victories in the NASCAR Grand National Series, the premier class of the time. Among these successes were triumphs in prestigious events such as the World 600 (now the Coca-Cola 600) and the Daytona 500 (1965).

Lorenzen is particularly known for his bold driving style and ability to take calculated risks. These qualities earned him the nickname "Fearless Freddie." He was also one of the first NASCAR drivers to enjoy widespread popularity with the public, thanks to his charisma and professional approach to the sport. His rigorous preparation method and attention to detail set him apart from many of his contemporaries.

“He wanted perfection and he made sure he got it. »

« (The other drivers) were partying, they wanted to go fast and enjoy life, but when my father arrived, he was more business-like, his daughter Amanda Lorenzen Gardstrom said in a 2014 interview. After every win, he would call the stockbroker to ask how best to invest his money. He insisted that his pit crew be ready to go at 7 a.m. every day—in clean white suits and ready to work. They all worked, planned, and strategized as a team. »

Herb Nab, who later became his chief engineer, said: " Freddie was a maniac. He cared about everything. He wanted everything to be perfect. He was never satisfied until it was. Maybe that was the key to his success. He wanted perfection and he made sure he got it. »

Although Lorenzen never won a NASCAR championship, he is considered one of the most influential drivers of his era. In 1963, he became the first driver to earn more than $100 in earnings in a single season, a feat that underscored his success and dominance on the racetrack. His popularity reached its peak when he was voted NASCAR's most popular driver in 000.

Early retirement

Unfortunately, Fred Lorenzen's career was marked by an early retirement. In 1967, at just 33 years old, he chose to leave racing for personal and health reasons, although he made sporadic appearances in the years that followed. His contribution to the sport was recognized decades later, however, when he was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2015, celebrating his role in the growth and popularity of the sport.

Off the track, Lorenzen is known for his humble personality and commitment to his family. After his career, he led a low-key life while remaining a respected figure in motorsports. His legacy lives on through stories of his exploits and the admiration of those who saw him race.

Fred Lorenzen epitomizes an era when NASCAR was booming, and his impact on the sport is undeniable. He is a symbol of dedication, courage and talent, a true legend whose memory continues to inspire future generations of drivers.

Valentin GLO

Journalist. Endurance reporter (WEC, IMSA, ELMS, ALMS) and sometimes F1 or IndyCar.

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