Google Doodle paid tribute to French race car driver Simone Louise des Forest on Friday, July 19th, with a striking visual. The doodle featured a portrait of Simone against a ‘Google’ backdrop, with a speeding car in the foreground, capturing the essence of her life’s passion.
Born in 1910 in Royan, France, Simone hailed from a privileged background, her father a cavalry captain. Her early years were spent at the Château de Fontorte, near Gannat, in southeastern Allier. At the age of 19, in 1929, Simone secured her driving license, becoming one of the first women in France to do so. She obtained her license at Suzanne Amélie’s driving school in Versailles, a pioneering institution established in 1928 exclusively for women.
Driven by a passion for speed, Simone embarked on a professional racing career. Her first motorsports event was the hill climb at La Baraque, near Clermont-Ferrand. Remarkably, she never experienced a single accident throughout her racing journey.
In 1931, during the Paris-Vichy race, Simone’s mother even served as her co-driver, showcasing the family’s shared passion for automobiles. Simone’s career spanned decades, encompassing prestigious events like the Mille Miglia, the 24 Hours of Spa, and the Monte-Carlo Rally, leaving an indelible mark on the world of motorsports.
The popular French expression, “En voiture Simone!”, is believed to have originated from Simone’s name, a testament to her enduring influence. Her dedication extended beyond racing; during World War II, Simone drove a Red Cross truck. Later, she participated in the France Truck Drivers’ Championship, achieving a commendable tenth-place finish.
In 1950, Simone became one of the first women to open a driving school, continuing her lifelong commitment to empowering women in the automotive world. In her later years, she dedicated herself to civil aviation, teaching for an impressive 25 years. Simone Louise des Forest passed away on November 15, 2004, at the age of 94, leaving a legacy as a trailblazer for women in motorsports and a driving force in the world of automobiles.
