This 6 Hours of Imola will mark a very special moment for me : my 100th WEC race with Toyota.
When I look back on the journey since the TS030 roll-out at Paul Ricard, I feel immense gratitude. None of this would have been possible without all the people who believed in me – sometimes even before I believed in myself. Thank you to Hugues de Chaunac, Alastair Moffitt, Rob Leupen, John Steeghs, David Floury and Thomas Heidbrink.
And a very special thanks to my blond who allows me to fully live my passion, even if it means being away from home a third of the year.
These 100 races are filled with incredible memories : unforgettable victories, intense emotions and unique moments shared with the team. Some wins stay with you for a lifetime and, as someone from Le Mans, the five Le Mans 24 hours will always hold a special place. The 2014 title as well with a strong Oreca presence.
But there have also been tougher times, like Le Mans (again) in 2014, 2016 and 2017. It’s this mix that makes the journey so powerful and authentic.
Beyond the results, what stands out most to me is this incredible human adventure. Behind every race, there are faces, voices and hands working in the shadows… Hours spent in the cold of January running the cars again and again, chasing the smallest détail, the slightest gain. Starting over. Always. Together, towards the same goal – a glory that may be unnecessary, yet has become essential.
To be honest, it’s hard to imagine doing 100 more… but I hope this story is far from over….