Dr Carl Le OAM
Combining passion and expertise is what led Dr Carl Le OAM to his recognition in the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours list by the Order of Australia.
Dr Le has been involved in motor sports since 1998. He represented the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) attending events and conferences around the world, and has been the doctor-in-charge for the Supercars Championship since 2008.
He also developed a new and improved driver extraction process, to assist drivers exit their vehicles and receive medical treatment in a timely manner.
For his work and impact on the sport, Dr Carl Le OAM was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to medicine in the motor sports industry.
“Being able to contribute to an increased level of safety for both drivers and racetrack workers over the decades that I’ve been involved has been the greatest impact of my work,” he says.
“It’s rewarding to see rescue procedures that I have developed being adopted across Australia and other countries.”
Dr Le was the chief medical officer of the inaugural Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix, and many other events – both two and four wheels – around the world.
On top of the development of extraction processes, he also co-developed the MedPod Mobile Medical Unit, and other specialist motor sport medical equipment. He also co-founded Team Medical Australia – a volunteer association that provides medical services to motor sports events across Australia.
Dr Le says traveling to other countries to share his knowledge has been a highlight of his work.
“Sharing my passion, and then witnessing the next generations learn and share the knowledge is very rewarding,” he says.
“I’ve been fortunate to travel the world and make lots of friends whilst combining my loves of medicine and motor sports.
“With much love and appreciation, I would like to thank my wife and children for all their support and understanding. Attending events has meant a lot of travel and time away from home.”
Dr Le was also selected for the COVID-19 honours roll. Dr Le – with Erebus motor sport – made and gave away over 12,000 face shields, along with other personal protective equipment. He also made videos to educate and help fellow Victorians protect themselves during the pandemic.