Blanc was, by trade, a gardener in the tranquil hamlet of Saconnex d'Arve, who initially took up the sport as he learnt to drive early by learning how to ride his tractor. He started racing in 1964 in Formula Junior, and despite the limitations of his machinery and budget, performed admirably and deserved his Formula 2 attempt. As well as racing in Europe, he raced as extensively in his homeland as was possible due to restrictions in Switzerland and even came close to putting a budget together for the 1975 Swiss Grand Prix. Sadly died in a plane crash in Africa in early 1997. He had visited a national park whilst on holiday when the plane stalled just 30 seconds after take-off, killing Jean and 22 others, including the son of the President of Guinea-Bissau.

Biography last updated 11 Apr 2026