Although his father Jack never enjoyed a strong result in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Geoff Brabham certainly made up for it.
The eldest Brabham son didn’t reach the heights of Formula 1 unlike his brothers Gary and David, but enjoyed immense success in the US at the famed Indianapolis 500, but it was IMSA’s GTP category where the titles came.
Linking up with Nissan at the right time, Brabham won four GTP titles between 1988 and 1991 solidifying his sportscar prowess.
The Brabham name up until 1993 wasn’t successful at Le Mans, which was a rarity for any motorsport related discipline.
Sir Jack had contested three events between 1957 and 1970, with his maiden appearance providing the only finish in 15th.
Geoff on the other hand arrived in 1993 off the back of two campaigns with Nissan as part of Peugeot’s three-strong team using its V10-powered 905 Evo 1C prototype.
Peugeot was just about to enter Formula 1 as an engine supplier, but was having one last crack at Le Mans led by celebrated team director Jean Todt.
Brabham spearheaded the third-string entry alongside French debutants Eric Helary and Christophe Bouchet.
Toyota emerged as a key rival to Peugeot and each shared the first three rows of the start grid. Brabham, Bouchet and Helary started sixth.
Running at a steady pace, the third Peugeot avoided trouble due to this and build a one lap lead with six hours to go.
The crucial moment in the race came when the lead Toyota endured a disastrous pit stop to ease the pressure of Peugeot as the battle was heating up between the three 905s sweeping the podium. With the Japanese challenge gone, Todt ordered the three Peugeots to remain in position until the end for the remaining at the 17 hour mark.
It provided a dream debut on home turf for Bouchet and Helary, while it was the final start at Le Mans for Brabham as he began to focus on racing in Australia.
Finally, nearly 40 years after Sir Jack made his Le Mans debut, it was Geoff greeting the chequered flag.
Youngest son David added to this by winning with Peugeot in 2009 ensuring the Brabham name was again elevated to the fore at La Sarthe.