Driver Journal #3 – My Very First Time at Le Mans
After each round of the Ligier European Series, I share my experience, emotions, and the lessons I’ve learned. This time, I had the chance to race on the most legendary circuit in the world for the very first time: Le Mans.
Before the race: excitement, nerves, and lots of motivation
Arriving at Le Mans, I was incredibly excited to finally discover this unique track. I was also a bit nervous, because it was clearly the most important race of the year—both for my racing record and for the visibility it could bring. Le Mans isn’t just any track. It’s one of a kind, with its layout, its length, its iconic corners—and the fact that it’s only used once a year.
I’d already been to the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times as a spectator (in 2018, 2019, and 2024), and like many motorsport fans, I’ve watched countless editions on TV. One that really stuck with me was 2016, when Toyota broke down on the final lap. It’s a race you never want to miss.
On track: intense sensations and a dramatic ending
I’ll never forget the free practice session. I was immediately blown away by the Mulsanne Straight—170 mph (270 km/h), bumps everywhere, and an unbelievable sense of speed I had never felt before. It was hard to find my rhythm at first, the emotions were so strong. But lap after lap, I settled in and grew more confident.
I qualified second. Of course, I would have loved to take pole, but starting on the front row at Le Mans is already something incredible. And it was strategically important to avoid trouble at the start.
The race was intense. I took the lead early thanks to the slipstream and held onto it for most of the race. But things got complicated after a Safety Car restart. Due to a gearbox issue, I had to cut the first corner. Even though I slowed down afterward to avoid gaining an advantage, I still received a 5-second penalty.
Despite that, I gave everything I had to build a gap. But the second-place driver caught up, and we battled all the way to the end. I crossed the finish line first, after an incredible fight with Iko Segret—but at that point, I was classified second. I was really disappointed and emotional, torn between sadness and pride. Standing on the Le Mans podium with my family in the grandstands was still a powerful moment.
Then, after the race, the stewards reviewed the footage, the data, and onboard cameras. The penalty was overturned. I was officially declared the winner. I was really happy, of course, but I had mixed feelings. That’s not how I imagined winning at Le Mans. I wish I could have fully experienced the podium. And I also understand how disappointing it must have been for my rivals.
The highlight
The moment I’ll never forget is hearing the French national anthem on the podium. Even though I wasn’t fully taking in the victory yet, it was a powerful moment filled with emotion, with my loved ones by my side, on that legendary podium.
What I learned
I learned that you should never give up. Everything can change up to the very last second. I also realized just how special this track is, with its changing surfaces and bumps.
It was a weekend where my ability to adapt really made the difference. I stayed focused until the very end.
What’s next
There’s still a long way to go in the championship. I’m 29 points behind the leaders. My goal is clear: win both races at the next round.
— Romain Boeckler
2024 Ligier JS Cup France Junior Champion
Driver Journal produced in collaboration with Ligier Automotive
