Passion and smiles around the Chevrolet NASCAR

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 NASCAR No. 24 only took to the track for just an hour during the last free practice session on Thursday. A few laps essentially dedicated to enriching the night driving experience of the three pilots. When performance and reliability are there, why take too many risks?

Because before that, the American spent more than 10 cumulative hours in two days grinding down the Le Mans track at a crazy pace, and at each stop the smiles of the drivers spoke volumes about the pleasure the whole team takes in facing the Centenary edition.

The next time you see us, it will be time to go 24 ⏰

Who's ready for Race Day? pic.twitter.com/Qq3l21efWa

— NASCARG56 (@nascarg56) June 8, 2023

The most experienced driver of the trio with two victories under his belt, including one overall, Mike Rockenfeller, is relishing the chance to be part of this group. “What a crazy, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!” People are going to talk about this car for a long time and to be here as one of its drivers is just an honor. Even though it's pretty close to our simulations, we're faster than we expected. I think everyone can be proud. Other drivers have come up to me and said “wow, this car is so cool” and they are right! ".

Any World Champion Formula 1 that he is, Jenson Button remains impressed by the commando operation led by Hendrick Motorsports. “The whole team did a fabulous job, Button said. Everything was perfect. It’s one of the best teams I’ve had the chance to race with.”

Frank smiles for Jenson Button, Jimmie Johnson and Mike Rockenfeller © Photo Frédéric Le Floc'h / DPPI

For his part, the experienced Rookie Jimmie Johnson realizes his childhood dream by participating for the first time in his career in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. A humble and hard-working attitude that would almost make you forget that this driver has one of the finest records in NASCAR! “Everything that’s happened from the beginning has been phenomenal. We had the heavy burden of proving the professionalism of NASCAR and I think we did the job in that regard. »

Only 24 Hours are missing to make this beautiful American dream a major milestone in the history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

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