Did Ken Miles Slow Down in the 1966 Le Mans Race? The Truth Behind the Finish

Discover why Ken Miles slowed down during the 1966 Le Mans race final laps under Ford's team orders, impacting the iconic photo finish.

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Ken Miles did indeed slow down during the final laps of the 1966 Le Mans race, but it was under team orders, not of his own choosing. This controversial decision by Ford was aimed at creating a photo finish to showcase three Ford cars crossing the finish line together, highlighting the brand's dominance. While it cost Miles a clear victory, it solidified one of the most iconic moments in racing history.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why did Ken Miles slow down during the final laps of the 1966 Le Mans race? Ken Miles slowed down because Ford team orders instructed him to do so in order to create a photo finish with three Ford cars crossing the line simultaneously, showcasing the brand's dominance.
  2. Did Ken Miles win the 1966 Le Mans race? Although Ken Miles was leading and would have won, the team orders to slow down for a photo finish cost him the clear victory, and he is officially recorded as finishing second.
  3. What was the significance of the 1966 Le Mans photo finish for Ford? The photo finish with three Ford cars crossing together was a strategic move to highlight Ford's domination in endurance racing, creating one of the most iconic moments in motorsport history.

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For more insights into iconic motorsport moments and legendary drivers, explore our in-depth content on Le Mans history, Ford's racing legacy, and profiles of racing legends like Carroll Shelby and Bruce McLaren.

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