Done to a ‘turn’
Ask local driver Arnold Robin which smell typifies the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the answer won’t be rubber or oil. It’s the scent of barbecues wafting over the camping areas and race village! Deeply rooted in his memory as a racegoer, this ambient aroma now accompanies him as a driver. “You can even smell it at the wheel,” he laughs, “especially when you reach Mulsanne Corner or the Porsche Curves.” A heady mix of adrenaline and the friendly atmosphere that together make the spirit of Le Mans.
While racing, of course, drivers have to adopt a pragmatic approach to food. “The 24 Hours of Le Mans now comes down to a simple dish – pasta and chicken,” he explains. There are, however, very good reasons for choosing such simple fare. Being subjected to intense effort while at the wheel, drivers prefer meals that are both easily digested and rich in protein and carbohydrates. Their diet therefore generally consists of starch foods and white meat. “During the race, I always pay attention to what I eat as I don’t want tummy trouble upsetting my stint,” Robin points out. Desserts are also simple, usually fromage blanc. Acidic fruit is avoided. Only bananas and dried fruit add an exotic note to meals that are geared towards endurance.
The hot-dog ritual
Once the race is over, however, dietary discipline gives way to a moment of pleasure. The Akkodis ASP Team’s drivers and mechanics like to enjoy a hot-dog together. “It’s comfort food but I look forward to it after burning off a lot of calories during the race.” This moment of enjoyment and relaxation rounds off a week of collective effort and is an important team bonding exercise.
Food is more than just fuel. It is also a performance lever that must not be underestimated. “These days, all drivers know that a good diet is crucial," Robin insists. "Even for amateurs, it’s something we can easily control. We’re not quite at the level of professional cyclists because different effort is required. If we take 500 grams of excess baggage into the car, it doesn’t matter too much, unlike a cyclist who has to carry the extra weight on their bike.”
Food not only has an effect on physical performance, it has an impact on the drivers’ mental capacity too. Meal times are strictly managed to avoid the fatigue that comes with digestion. Drivers often eat straight after their stint and then abstain for several hours to avoid drowsiness.
Finally, the 24 Hours of Le Mans does not only a sporting challenge for drivers. The event is an experience that is savoured through the rituals that add a touch of spice to the intensity of the race. Whether it be the fans’ barbecued sausages and burgers, the drivers’ pasta dish or a delicious post-race hot-dog, each mouthful tastes of the goodness of Le Mans – participation, performance and passion
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