24h Le Mans
Formula 1 drivers have no shortage of fans at the 24 Hours circuit. For some spectators, their presence is an added bonus to the race itself, but for most the atmosphere and spirit of Le Mans are still the real reasons to come.
Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button, Juan Pablo Montoya...These famous Formula 1 drivers, set to take the start at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, are drawing an even greater spotlight than usual to the upcoming 86th edition. Some people love them, some admire them, others don't really know them. Many spectators at Test Day, real diehard fans of the greatest endurance race in the world, had their own opinions about the F1 presence.
"They're making the race even more appealing and changing the objectives. It's really interesting!" exclaims Bruno after arriving from Cognac mainly to watch Alonso. "He's my favorite driver. I'm a big fan of Formula 1, I'll be happy if Alonso wins."
Bruno is not the only one rooting for the Spanish driver representing Toyota. Julien, age 12, attended Test Day with his dad Franck. "I'm for Alonso in LMP1, he is very fair play," confirms the young boy who dreams of becoming a mechanic at the 24 Hours of Le Mans! The father/son duo came from Bordeaux to check out the F1 drivers' ability to adapt. As for Bruno, he's quite convinced: "The F1 drivers will hold their own against the endurance pros. It's going to be a stellar race!"
Other spectators, also regulars at the race, think the presence of Formula 1 drivers isn't that big a deal. A local man named Thomas, joined by his son Enzo, would have come to see the 24 Hours no matter what: "I haven't missed a running since I was 20 years old," admits Thomas.
Endurance racing superfans, Gwenaël and his uncle Fabien have been attending the 24 Hours together for more than 30 years. They believe there is an added interest in this edition. "Perhaps these F1 drivers will attract new constructors to LMP1," hopes Fabien. The two fans do not follow Formula 1 as they find it very elitist unlike their favorite race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, since it includes private teams and provides a fun and family-oriented atmosphere.
PHOTOS: LE MANS (SARTHE, FRANCE), CIRCUIT DES 24 HEURES DU MANS, 2018 RUNNING. Fabien, his son Etienne and nephew Gwenaël can't wait to see the F1 drivers take on the pros of endurance.
