Le Mans – The moving open letter from Loïc Duval to Tom Kristensen

Dear Tom,

By hanging up the headphones, it's a page in the history ofEndurance and Audi Sport that you turn. And I'm honored to have been one of the actors. I only shared the wheel with you for two seasons, but there are many memories that I will keep in mind. There are many talented drivers. There is only one Tom Kristensen.

Your attitude, in and outside the car, your charisma, your results... you are a true example for any driver. Your motivation and involvement have never wavered over the years. Your longevity at the highest level impresses us just as it makes us envious. What a privilege to have experienced part of this victorious epic; we need to be aware of it. A fantastic ambassador for endurance, for Audi, and for motorsport in general, you have succeeded, every year in mid-June, in bringing the whole of Denmark to Sarthe. An unprecedented craze. What you have accomplished is fabulous.

When I arrived at Audi at the beginning of 2012, you were one of the first to come see me at Ofterschwang, during the traditional pre-season winter training course, to say “Welcome to the family”. Great lesson in humility. A few months later, a handful of minutes after the arrival of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, you opened the door of my Audi in the parc ferme before taking me in your arms and sliding me in. “It would be nice to team up together.” Coming from the record winner, that meant a lot...

I had this chance, since in 2013 I was entrusted with the heavy responsibility of replacing your long-time friend and teammate Dindo Capello, and finding myself associated with Allan and you. I am proud to have joined the drivers who triumphed in Sarthe alongside you, to have participated in your ninth and final success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. A victory that, I know, holds a special place in your heart for many reasons. Also proud to have been, with Allan and you, crowned Endurance world champions. A title that was missing from your incredible track record and that you fully deserved. It would have been so unfair if you, who have left so much of a mark on the history of this discipline, did not win the world crown.

I will also not forget the FIA ​​Awards Gala organized in Paris last year, and the film we shot on this occasion... Allan having put away his gloves at the end of last season, I will be the last protagonist of the unforgettable 2013 campaign still active next year. I will feel a little “orphan”.

Certainly the end of the current season is proving delicate, and the 6 Hours of São Paulo should also be complicated, but I want the event to be a celebration. The watchword will be “pleasure”, both on and off the track. I can't wait to get there, to close this incredible chapter of your career in the most beautiful way. I speak of a “chapter” because I know that I will still be able to count on you in the future, just like I am doing with Allan this season, since you remain within the Audi family.

One last thing Tom. You were on the podium at the 24 Hours of Le Mans every time you saw the finish line. Nine times, you occupied the highest step. You must have a secret? Until then, have you kept it well?

Champion hats off!