The relativity of time, between theory and practice. For a driver launched at full speed in the Mulsanne straight, overtaking competitors at Mulsanne or waiting in the pits during the intervention of the mechanics, seconds, minutes and hours do not pass at the same pace as in everyday life. . The former Danish driver, record holder for victories at Le Mans with 9 first places, today Rolex Testimony and ambassador for the centenary of the race, explains this.
A relay, single, double or triple, can require spending several hours at the wheel. Do we keep track of time passing?
During the race, you only live in the present moment. It is absolutely necessary to remain vigilant at every second. Time can flow very differently depending on the circumstances: when you’re driving, especially if you’re trying to catch up, time flies incredibly fast with your focus. If you’re waiting between stints trying to relax before getting back behind the wheel, or if you’re leading the race, then the time can go by really, really slowly.
In a 24-hour long event, how long did you typically stay behind the wheel?
I usually spent more than eight hours behind the wheel, but never exceeding a total of eleven hours.
For how many hours of sleep?
On average, I slept for about an hour and twenty minutes throughout the race.
What was your maximum time behind the wheel before giving way to a teammate?`
A driver is allowed to drive the car for a maximum of four hours at a time. I think my longest stint was about three hours and fifty-five minutes.
Do you appreciate watches as instruments for measuring time or is it above all a beautiful object?
Time is of great importance. Rolex creates many iconic watches, but my absolute favorite is the Daytona model. For a pilot, this represents our ultimate challenge: absolute performance, precision and a standard of excellence, which are the signature of Rolex. In our world, perfection takes the top step of the podium at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, so receiving a Daytona watch engraved at that moment is the perfect reward. Everywhere I travel in the world, people ask me about the stories that watches tell, highlighting the global appeal of motorsport and Rolex. A Daytona chronograph is synonymous with speed and endurance, it is the symbol watch for any racing driver.
Are the two Rolex Daytona watches you received from your Le Mans victories kept next to your cups and trophies like works of art, or do you wear them every day?
My Rolexes have an emotional dimension and remain as important to me today as when I received them. They tell the story of defining moments in my career. When I look at them, not only do I see precision stopwatches, but I also relive the exploits I have accomplished with my team and my co-drivers. I still remember each race like it was yesterday: the preparations in the paddock; the fans around the circuit and the incredible atmosphere on the day of the event itself. I wear all my watches and my favorite is always the one on my wrist that day!
What do a car engine and a watch movement have in common?
You expect the same from your car as you do from your watch: the ultimate in design, efficiency and reliability. They both inspire passion and it’s a really personal feeling. Cars provide pleasure, as do watches. A Rolex tells me the story of a trip or celebrates a special occasion in my life. She reminds me of that memorable moment. Watches and cars create and forge their own heritage. It’s not just about the past or the present, but about being able to share those memories with future generations and create new ones together.
Do you see a connection between a car racing team and a watch manufacturer?
A racing car and a watch have one great similarity: the team behind them. Considerable collective work is required of engineers and mechanics, both in the world of motorsport and in that of watchmaking. To shine on the wrist as on the track. This year, three drivers will be more than the winners of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, they will be the ones who won the centenary edition. The feat of a lifetime.
See you Sunday morning with Tom Kristensen for the last hours of the race. Checkered flag
