René Thomas (racing driver)

René Thomas (1886 – 1975) was a French Grand Prix driver. He is best known for winning the 1914 Indianapolis 500 driving a Delage.

Thomas began his racing career before World War I, driving for the Delage factory team. In addition to his Indianapolis victory, he also achieved notable success in European Grand Prix racing, finishing second in the 1913 French Grand Prix. His performances established him as a leading driver of the era.

During World War I, Thomas served in the French military.

After the war, he returned to racing, although with less success than before. He continued to compete in major races such as the Indianapolis 500 and the French Grand Prix, but did not achieve any further victories. He retired from professional racing in the late 1920s.

Thomas is remembered as one of the early stars of motor racing, and his victory at Indianapolis is a significant moment in the history of French motorsport.