On 21 September 1947, the French Grand Prix returned to Lyon-Parilly after a seven-year interruption caused by the Second World War. Officially the Grand Prix de l’Automobile Club de France, the race marked the revival of one of Europe’s great motor-racing traditions. Monaco-born veteran Louis Chiron dominated proceedings in a 4½-litre, naturally aspirated Talbot, winning at an average 77.93 mph and finishing almost 1 minute 38 seconds ahead of Henri Louveau’s Maserati.
The temporary Lyon-Parilly circuit used roads in the Bron and Vénissieux suburbs and measured about 4.49 miles. Chiron’s victory was significant beyond the result: it reflected the rapid revival of continental motor racing as Europe rebuilt after the war. Talbot’s competitive return also demonstrated how established French marques were reclaiming their place on the international racing scene.
