Ayari pilot for a weekend in Ligier-Matra: “Nothing beats single-seaters”

Have you ever driven a F1 history before?​

I had developed Jean's cars ("Mr John of B" Editor's note), but this is my first race. I'm here to ride more than to win. These are expensive cars and you shouldn't play with them too much, but I'm having fun. You can make prototypes or whatever you want, weight is weight and nothing beats weight. car. I hadn't had this much fun in 20 years, a kid's pleasure.

Historic French Grand Prix
Ligier years also takes place on the track!
Qualifying time for the Ligiers
Here the Ligier JS17 driven by Soheil Ayari #ligier50years #f1 #classicf1 pic.twitter.com/Lvi0tlN4lx

— Ligier Automotive (@LigierAutomotiv) 28th June 2019

How is this Ligier-Matra different from the Williams-Renault that you tested in 1997?

Technically, there is a 15-year gap, with progress having been unprecedented during this period. It looks more like F3000 that I have flown. There is ground effect, but less than at the time because the skirts have been raised. F1 drivers struggled physically so with gentlemen over 50 it would be unplayable. It’s still going quickly since we’re running within the times of an LM P2.

Ligier and Magny-Cours, it’s a long story! Past, present, future. Join us to celebrate our 50 years on 28-30 June at the Grand Prix de France historique on the @MagnyCoursTrack. Many surprises are waiting for you! Read all about it https://t.co/4u9bNhVnFH pic.twitter.com/RmIOrvgcl3

— Ligier Automotive (@LigierAutomotiv) 26th June 2019

And this V12 Matra, does it live up to its legend?

I have a nice engine behind me, but it is limited to 10 rpm to be able to last the season. It is therefore missing the 000 rpm where the power is located. From 3000 hp at the time, I must have 550 to 480 hp today, and the advantage of the V500 compared to the V12 has therefore disappeared