Aston Martin DBR1 returns to Le Mans in memory of legends

The Aston Martin tribute was brought about by the sad passing in recent weeks of not only both drivers, Shelby (89) and Salvadori (90), but DBR1 designer and chief engineer Ted Cutting (85).

Aston Martin head of motorsport David King said, "We were deeply saddened by the loss of Carroll, Roy and Ted. They all played a hugely important role in Aston Martin's racing history and will forever remain part of the company's heritage. To mark their passing, we felt it fitting to return their car to the scene of its greatest victory."

The #5 Aston Martin will be on display taking pride of place near the start of the Circuit de la Sarthe pit straight.

Along with the displayed classic the team's factory-entered Aston Martin Vantage GTEs will both carry commemorative plaques and their drivers' helmets will wear the initials of Shelby and Salvadori as well as the number 59.

Finally, a short film produced by Aston Martin has also been put together as a tribute using original footage of Shelby, Salvadori and Cutting from the 1959 Le Mans race. The silent film shows the drivers arriving at the track, racing the DRB1 around the famed circuit and taking the chequered flag in victory.