Waltrip: From Nascar to the 24 Hours of Le Mans

Michael Waltrip, former winner of the Daytona 500 in 2001, is competing in the Le Mans double-lap race for the first time. Accustomed to American ovals, he discovered a 13-kilometer long track, alternating between long straights and 90° turns.

“This circuit is really interesting, I wasn?t in great shape during the Test day due to indigestion, I did my ten laps, but I feel like I can improve,” comments the American in Free Maine. “The problem here in learning the circuit is that it is more than 13 kilometers long. Usually, if I mess up I tell myself that it's no big deal and that I'll come back in a minute. Here, you have to wait four to take your revenge. »

Michael Waltrip, aged 48, nevertheless remains delighted to be involved in this legendary event. “ I never imagined having such an experience at this time in my life. Every time I passed by, I had a smile on April 24. It feels like a stroll on a country road. The road stops and I turn right 90° towards the city, it's unlike any other circuit. »

Discover in your AUTOhebdo magazine, currently on newsstands, around fifteen pages on 24 Hours of Le Mans including exclusive interviews with Philippe Sinault and Anthony Davidson as well as the column by Henri Pescarolo.