Bol d'Or Circuit Paul Ricard 1983

Created by Yves Thos for the 1983 Bol d’Or, this original French motorsport poster promotes the celebrated 24-hour motorcycle endurance race held on September 17 and 18 at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet. The circuit hosted the event from 1978 until 1999, becoming closely associated with one of the most demanding competitions in international motorcycle racing.

Thos places the viewer at the edge of the track as two motorcycles lean dramatically into a sweeping corner. Their brilliant headlights illuminate the road while the blurred landscape conveys extraordinary speed. Spectators, national flags and a distant Ferris wheel evoke the festival atmosphere that traditionally surrounded the Bol d’Or throughout the day and night.

The monumental white title dominates the evening sky, while the dates and Circuit Paul Ricard name remain clearly visible despite the energy of the illustration. A large Gauloises billboard follows the curve of the track, accompanied by the logos of Moto Revue, Crédit Lyonnais, RMC and Total. The cool blue and grey palette is enlivened by flashes of red, orange and brilliant white.

Yves Thos (1935–2020) was a French painter, illustrator and poster designer particularly celebrated for his cinema advertising. He created memorable French posters for films including La Dolce Vita, Spartacus, Goldfinger and On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. His command of dramatic perspective, movement and theatrical lighting is equally effective here, transforming the race into a scene worthy of an action film.

With its panoramic format, powerful depiction of speed and direct connection to the golden age of motorcycle endurance racing, this original 1983 poster is particularly desirable for collectors of the Bol d’Or, Circuit Paul Ricard memorabilia and French motorsport graphics. It also represents an unusual sporting commission by one of France’s most accomplished postwar poster artists.

Original Poster

Automotive - Sport - Sarthe

Gauloise

S.n.i.l. Aulnay

Good condition, one small tear