McQueen's son to star at Le Mans celebration

| 21 Oct 2011

Chad McQueen, the son of King of Cool and Le Mans star Steve McQueen, will be guest of honour at a London event marking the racing film’s 40th anniversary.

He will join Le Mans heroes Derek Bell and David Piper in a tribute evening to celebrate the 1971 epic motor racing flick, in which his father took the lead role.

The VIP gala evening on 24 November is being held to launch Top Gear Live at London’s ExCel and guests will gain insight into the iconic film as they watch original clips, view stills and marvel at behind-the-scenes footage.

They’ll also get to share the memories of those who were there as Piper and Bell reminisce on the making of a movie in which they both risked their lives as they brought McQueen’s dream to create the best, most realistic film about motor sport ever to life.

The unique piece of cinematography featured a Porsche 917 and a Ferrari 512 and is remembered for its breathtaking footage from the actual 1970 race as well as a set involving 26 high-performance cars, 41 stunt drivers and an army of French-speaking extras to capture the exhilarating atmosphere of arguably the greatest race on earth.

Guests will also have an exclusive opportunity to get up close to Piper’s original 1969 Porsche 917, which will be on display at the gala event.

Tickets cost £510 per person. Call 020 7370 8341 to book.