Marc Goossens: “My career is a real roller coaster”

He knew Zak Brown as a hard-working driver, Christian Horner as an immature team manager, Fernando Alonso as an alien teammate... He took part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans thirteen times, settled in Japan and the United States and is having a blast today. today in EuroNASCAR. At almost 54 years old, it is now his role as team manager which takes precedence over his racing career.

Published on 19/11/2023 à 18:00

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Marc Goossens: “My career is a real roller coaster”

Marc Goorsens - Photo: Jacques Letihon

European Champion of karting, British Formula Ford champion, winner of the Formula Ford Festival… This is a career that got off to a very good start at the dawn of the 90s.

It's true. Until then, the scenario was ideal. Especially since I was part of the Marlboro industry. I always received unconditional support from my parents, but they could not afford to support me financially. Without the support of the tobacco company, I would never have been able to do one meter in car. After Formula Ford, the sponsor logically chose to enter me in the British championship. Formula 3 at West Surrey Racing. The Reynard chassis was at the end of its life, but Dick Bennetts, the team boss, did not want to hear about the Dallara. He texted me, “Italians don’t know how to make racing cars!” » Season 92 was not a success. Fortunately, the boss changed his mind and after two races the following year, Pedro de la Rosa and I benefited from the Dallara chassis. I got a victory and finished 3rd in the championship.

We then find you in Formula 3000, but without the famous cowboy colors.

And for good reason ! While I was preparing to compete in the first F3000 race in April 1994 within the Nordic team, those in charge of Marlboro decided to stop their involvement in single-seaters to support Freddy Loix and Bruno Thiry in rallying.