“It was my 33rd Le Mans.”

Thirty-three.

It is a number that feels almost unreal when I stop to think about it.

From the excitement of childhood visits to the circuit, to working at the heart of the paddock with some of the greatest teams in endurance racing, Le Mans has been a constant presence throughout my life.

Each edition is unique. Different cars, different teams, different challenges and different emotions. Yet every year, the same feeling returns as race week begins. The anticipation, the energy and the awareness that you are about to be part of something truly special.

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is much more than a race. It is a gathering of people united by a shared passion. Drivers, engineers, mechanics, volunteers, officials, partners and hundreds of thousands of fans all contribute to creating an atmosphere unlike any other event in motorsport.

This year was my 33rd Le Mans.

Thirty-three opportunities to learn, to meet extraordinary people and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

And somehow, despite all those years, the magic remains exactly the same.

As I walked through the city during the traditional parade, surrounded by fans from all over the world, I was reminded once again of how fortunate I am to be part of this incredible adventure.

The race may last 24 hours.

The memories last forever.