Switzerland Has Just Revoked the Racing Ban Implemented Following the 1955 Le Mans Tragedy.

      Switzerland held its first closed-circuit race since the 1955 Le Mans disaster, a Formula E event, in Zurich in 2018.

      Dominic Romney/FIA Formula E via Getty Images

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      In recent years, Switzerland has made exceptions to its national motorsport prohibition, a law that has been in effect since the 1955 Le Mans tragedy that resulted in over 80 fatalities. The country permitted Formula E races in 2018 and 2019, based on an exemption for electric vehicles. Four years ago, we reported on a series of laws that were revoked or relaxed by the government, seemingly paving the way for the country to permit closed-circuit racing more generally. Now, 71 years after the initial ban, it has happened: Switzerland can race again.

      On Wednesday, Switzerland’s Federal Council announced that the racing ban would be lifted effective July 1. As noted by RacingNews365, non-circuit motorsport forms, such as rallies and hill climbs, were already allowed under the law. However, this change opens the door for larger events, like Formula 1. This makes sense since F1 has experienced immense growth since Switzerland allowed Formula E to test its races, even in Europe where it was already well-established.

      Moving forward, the country’s 26 cantons (member states) will have the authority to decide whether they will permit closed-track racing within their borders. Given this, the prospect of a Swiss Grand Prix seems rather ambitious; racetracks, particularly FIA Grade 1 facilities, take considerable time to construct.

      In the seven decades since the ban was enacted, Switzerland has produced notable drivers, including F1 legend Clay Regazzoni and Sébastien Buemi, who raced in the sport but is now better recognized for his four victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Toyota.

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