Matra Sports is a French company primarily engaged in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Owned by the Lagardère Group, Matra Sports made its mark in the world of motorsport. The company is headquartered in France and has a global presence, with significant operations in various countries. Known for producing racing cars and winning championships, Matra Sports has a rich legacy in Formula One, securing titles in the late ’60s and early ’70s. The company has since diversified but continues to be a recognizable name in motorsport and engineering.
Founded in 1945 as Mécanique Aviation Traction, Matra Sports initially operated in the aeronautics industry. Over time, it pivoted to automobile engineering and motorsports. The French company gained fame for its involvement in Formula One racing, capturing its first championship title in 1969 with Jackie Stewart as the driver. It added two more titles in 1971 and 1972, establishing itself as a powerhouse in the world of motorsports. In addition to F1, Matra also succeeded in sports car races like the Le Mans 24 Hours. Owned by the Lagardère Group, the company’s current focus has expanded to aerospace and defense, but its legacy in motorsports remains iconic.
What is Matra Sports?
Matra Sports is a French company initially founded to specialize in aeronautics but later became renowned for its achievements in motorsports, particularly Formula One. It won multiple championships in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Currently owned by the Lagardère Group, Matra has diversified its focus to include aerospace and defense sectors.