This rare Raymond Sommer signed photograph celebrates one of the most fearless and historically important drivers of early Grand Prix and endurance racing. A two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Sommer occupies a unique place in motorsport history—not only for his speed and technical brilliance, but for his courage both on and off the track during World War II.
Born in Mouzon, France in 1906, Raymond Sommer emerged as one of the leading sports car and Grand Prix drivers of the 1930s. He first gained international recognition with Alfa Romeo, driving for the factory team during an era dominated by the great European marques. Sommer claimed his first Le Mans victory in 1932, sharing an Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 with Luigi Chinetti. He repeated the feat in 1933, again with Chinetti, firmly establishing himself among endurance racing’s elite.
Sommer’s historical significance grew even further after the war. In 1947 he entered a privately run Ferrari 125 S—the very first Ferrari ever built to compete—at the Circuito di Torino. Sommer won the race, delivering Enzo Ferrari his first victory as an independent manufacturer. This triumph marked the beginning of Ferrari’s legendary competition history and makes Sommer one of the foundational figures in the brand’s rise.
Away from racing, Sommer demonstrated extraordinary bravery during World War II. Following the German occupation of France, he became actively involved in the French Resistance. Using his status and mobility, he assisted underground efforts, including helping Allied personnel escape and supporting covert operations. His wartime actions cement his legacy not only as a sporting hero but as a man of genuine courage and patriotism.
Sommer returned to racing after the war and continued competing at the highest level in both sports cars and early Formula One. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1950 during the Cadours Grand Prix. Thrown from his Cooper-JAP after contact while not wearing a protective helmet—a common but deadly omission in that era—Sommer suffered fatal injuries. His death became one of the stark reminders that pushed motorsport toward greater safety standards.
Owning a Raymond Sommer autograph is owning a piece of intertwined Ferrari, Le Mans, Formula One and World War II history. This signed photograph is an exceptional collectible for serious motorsport memorabilia enthusiasts, Ferrari historians, and collectors of resistance-era figures alike.
The photograph measures 162 × 113mm and has been professionally laid down onto thick mount board at some stage during its 76+ year history.
Accompanied with a certificate of authenticity
$1,314.13
Out of stock
