1895day.year
Paris–Bordeaux–Paris, sometimes called the first automobile race in history or the "first motor race", takes place.
The Paris–Bordeaux–Paris race, often hailed as the first motor race, challenges early automobiles over nearly 1,400 kilometers in France.
Held from June 11 to 13, 1895, the Paris–Bordeaux–Paris event tested the endurance of early motor vehicles.
Participants navigated unpaved roads, rough terrains, and unpredictable weather conditions.
Count Albert de Dion finished first but was ineligible for the main prize due to a technicality.
Émile Levassor was later declared the winner for his reliable Panhard et Levassor car.
The race proved the viability of the automobile and spurred interest in motorized transport.
Organized by Le Petit Journal, it attracted engineers, aristocrats, and spectators fascinated by the new technology.
1895
Paris–Bordeaux–Paris
1919day.year
Sir Barton wins the Belmont Stakes, becoming the first horse to win the U.S. Triple Crown.
On June 11, 1919, Sir Barton became the first horse to sweep the U.S. Triple Crown with a Belmont Stakes victory.
Sir Barton secured his place in sporting history on June 11, 1919, by winning the Belmont Stakes.
He had already claimed victory in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, completing the first Triple Crown.
Ridden by jockey Johnny Loftus and owned by J.K.L. Ross, the chestnut colt dominated American racing.
His achievement set a new standard for excellence in thoroughbred competition.
The Triple Crown would remain unattained until Gallant Fox matched it in 1930.
Sir Barton’s legacy endures as a benchmark for equine greatness in the racing world.
1919
Sir Barton
Belmont Stakes
U.S. Triple Crown
1955day.year
Eighty-three spectators are killed and at least one hundred are injured after an Austin-Healey and a Mercedes-Benz collide at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the deadliest ever accident in motorsports.
On June 11, 1955, a tragic collision at the 24 Hours of Le Mans killed 83 spectators and injured over 100 in motorsport history.
During the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans, an Austin-Healey collided with a Mercedes-Benz on a fast section of the track. Debris and hot metal soared into the crowd, causing the worst disaster in motorsport history. Emergency crews rushed to assist the injured as panic spread among spectators. The catastrophe prompted sweeping safety reforms in racing and circuit design. Major motorsport events were canceled or suspended while organizers reevaluated crowd control measures. The incident reshaped the relationship between speed, entertainment, and safety in high-speed sports.
1955
Austin-Healey
Mercedes-Benz
collide at the 24 Hours of Le Mans
motorsports
2010day.year
The first African FIFA World Cup kicks off in South Africa.
The 2010 FIFA World Cup, the first hosted in Africa, kicks off in South Africa.
On June 11, 2010, South Africa hosted the opening match of the 19th FIFA World Cup at Johannesburg's Soccer City, marking the first time the tournament was held on African soil. The host nation faced Mexico in a thrilling match that ended 1-1 before over 84,000 fans. The event showcased vibrant ceremonies, traditional music, and the iconic vuvuzela horn. Over the next month, 32 teams competed across nine venues, culminating in Spain's first World Cup victory. The tournament elevated South Africa's global profile and left a lasting legacy for football development across the continent.
2010
FIFA World Cup
South Africa