24h Le Mans
Jacky Ickx drove his maiden 24 Hours of Le Mans race fifty years ago. As a preview to an interview to be published on www.lemans.org, here are a few words from the six-time winner who modestly acknowledges that a Le Mans win always comes down to team work.
Even Tom Kristensen, who earned the record for the most victories at the 24 Hours in 2005, admits that “Mr Le Mans” is Jacky Ickx and no one else. The Belgium champion’s Le Mans story is one long series of exploits, including a first victory after starting from the back of the field (1969), three consecutive pole positions (1981-1982-1983), and a total of six wins at the 24 Hours (1969-75-76-77-81-82).
Despite his impressive track record, 72-year-old Ickx still refuses any notion of a cult status: “The record needs to be set straight because it’s completely unfair for those who are not in the spotlight. In motor racing, there is so much work done beforehand by people that we never see. They are behind the scenes but are passionate about what they do and are key to the project. They make the driver what he is and it’s something that applies to everyday life too. They provide you with a tool and if you are there at the right time, you find yourself at the wheel of the winning car. The only thing the driver has to do is stay on the track and go as fast as possible! Of course, you can’t win if don't have a good teammate, but none of that is any good if the work has not been done beforehand.”
Ickx is not only a legend on the racetrack but also a gentleman who is always ready to pay homage to the people behind the scenes. Read more soon here on www.lemans.org, but in the meantime head over to myACO.com to see our exclusive interview.
Photo: Jacky Ickx
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