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A talk with Tom Kristensen, the greatest endurance...

A talk with Tom Kristensen, the greatest endurance driver in racing history

Tom Kristensen


By: Guilherme Marques

A few words with the greatest of all time

This new thing, calling someone the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time), is actually quite funny. Not ‘a’ goat … ‘the’ GOAT. Which is exactly what Tom Kristensen is.

I had the opportunity to interview Tom Kristensen on the occasion of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.

I wanted to know how he felt about many things, but mostly had to stick to the classic car theme, as per the mentioned event in California. Kristensen is a Rolex Testimonee – Rolex-speak for ambassador – and it was through the Swiss watch manufacturer that I got to pose some questions to someone many consider to be the greatest endurance driver in the history of the motorsport.

Audi R18 e-tron quattro #2

These things are always subjective, of course, but Mr. Kristensen is the record holder for most wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with nine to his name. Yes, nine! He also holds the accolade for most wins at the 12 Hours of Sebring, with six.

There is a lot to be said about a driver who mastered a specific class of racing like no other before or since but, to me, there is occasion that sets Tom Kristensen apart and shows he is a special kind of person – and not just a special kind of driver.

I remember sitting on the sofa in my living room, watching the start of the 2013 24 Hours of Le Mans. For all intents and purposes, I was not sure I wanted Kristensen to win – after all, he had won eight times before and there were many new(ish) drivers who I felt deserved to win for the first or second time.

On the third lap, driving an Aston Martin GTE, Kristensen’s fellow countryman, and friend, Allan Simonsen crashed at the exit of the Tertre Rouge corner and was killed by the impact. It was the first fatality at Le Mans for 16 years. No one else was killed ever since.

For Kristensen, the build-up to Le Mans had been harder than ever before. His father, Danish touring car champion Erik Kristensen, had lost his battle to cancer just three months before, after a long period of treatments that took a toll on the whole family. In his mind, Tom wanted to win this race one last time, so he could dedicate it to his father.

He did win it, at the age of 45, cementing his legend further. But, as soon as the first reporter asked him what it meant, he said: “This weekend I was driving with my father’s determination. He was the most low-key person in the world and he died in March, so I said I’d win Le Mans with my boys this year. I’m proud to be team-mates with these two [Allan McNish and Loic Duval] and hope one day we can win another so I can dedicate it to my dad, because this one’s for Allan Simonsen.”

I never looked at Tom the same way. I had always admired him, yes, but in that small statement, he encapsulated everything I love about motorsport. I was sad that he didn’t win again in 2014, making it a perfect 10, and sadder still when he announced his retirement in November that year.

So here are a few questions Tom kindly answered … as a Rolex Testimonee, let’s not forget. I promise I will write more about him and his extraordinary career in the future.

Audi Laps with Tom Kristensen

The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion celebrates half a century in 2024. How important is classic car culture and classic car racing in bringing awareness to the younger generations when it comes to the automotive world in general and cars as an object of passion in particular?

The events in California showcase the history and brilliance of the ideas and designs from the past. The cars are expertly maintained, creating a remarkable time capsule, reminding you of a different time, as well as the brilliant creations and the personalities who influenced them. The heritage of our sport is something I’m very interested in – it is fascinating to learn about it (…).

Why does Rolex maintain its association with motorsport?

The partnership between Rolex and motorsport is a perfect match. It works brilliantly; you have to perform at the pinnacle, whether trying to craft the ultimate watch or trying to win at the highest level. The human spirit of everyone involved in these industries is exceptional too – it takes dedication, teamwork and energy to achieve the best.

How can we educate younger generations in the beauty of racing and the impact it can have in terms of pioneering technology? Is this important, for global brands to keep their association with motorsport?

Classic automotive events are very important in terms of keeping the heritage at the forefront of our sport. It is a way of stepping back in time and ensure people remember how motorsport has developed. You see the history of the sport and re-live moments that occurred before you were born. The younger generations see this, which helps them to understand motorsport and how the technology and design of cars have developed. Rolex’s commitment to pioneering technology is very similar to that seen in the automotive industry (…). To successfully create cutting-edge components and new products, both industries require talented individuals, with the passion and the expertise to do well, while remaining united in a team effort.

How much do you miss competitive racing? Do you see yourself entering the 24 Hours of Le Mans as more of a Gentleman Driver in the future, maybe in a GT car?

I feel a great sense of pride reflecting on my journey with different cars and teammates. It’s amazing to reminisce on the wonderful time I had competing, as well as to look ahead to the future as technology rapidly develops. Endurance racing is in a golden era and it’s only going to get better. I look to the future with bright eyes and almost wish I could join them!

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