Le Mans 1967: The First Champagne Spray

June 11, 1967. Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt won Le Mans in a Ford GT40 Mk IV - the only American car, team, and drivers to win outright. Gurney shook his Moët bottle and sprayed Henry Ford II, Carroll Shelby, and everyone on the podium. Every motorsport champagne spray since traces back to this moment.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Visit the Circuit Adventure · Price: moderate

   Visit the Circuit de la Sarthe, home of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The track is partially public roads, but the permanent sections are accessible. The museum (Musée des 24 Heures) opens daily and displays winning cars including Ford GT40s. The 1967 winning car chassis #1 is in the Shelby American Collection in Colorado, but replicas appear here.

   Backup: If visiting outside race week, the circuit offers driving experiences on the Bugatti Circuit (shorter layout).

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2. 2 Find the Podium History · Free

   Walk to the podium area near the main grandstands. This is where Gurney sprayed that famous bottle of Moët & Chandon on June 11, 1967. Foyt told him: "That's the boss you're spraying!" (Henry Ford II was in the splash zone). Gurney later said he was "not aware I was starting a tradition that continues in winner's circles all around the world."

   Backup: During race week the podium is restricted; visit the museum for podium photos and memorabilia.

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3. 3 Toast with Champagne Wine · Price: moderate

   Buy a bottle of Moët & Chandon (the 1967 sponsor) at the circuit shop or nearby supermarket. Find a spot overlooking the track - the Dunlop Curve has public viewing areas. Toast to Gurney and Foyt - still the only all-American victory in Le Mans history.

   Backup: If not visiting during a race, the La Chapelle restaurant near the circuit serves champagne with views.

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