2023-11-05 12:18:00
Jean-Pierre, is this your first 24-hour race?
Absolutely. This year, I have already had the pleasure of participating in the Tour Auto, which stopped here before ending in Cannes, as well as in Le Mans Classic. We often discussed Les 2 Tours d’Horloge with Pierre Novikoff and Matthieu Lamoure, friends from the Parisian auction house Artcurial who collaborate on the show. It is the one and only historic race truly lasting 24 hours. And it’s a test that must be competed between friends. To have fun. Wish granted thanks to Nicolas Siebenschuh, the owner of this little Ford Escort MK1 from 1974. A road car transformed into a circuit beast. She has a crazy face, doesn’t she?
Did you frequent Paul-Ricard during your youth in Cannes?
Yes, oh my! I had a dad who was a car salesman and a Formula 1 fan, so I came there dozens and dozens of times. At the beginning, I was 6 or 7 years old. I was impressed by the speed and noise of the cars. We also followed the Monte-Carlo Rally. Today, I maintain a strong link with the Paul-Ricard circuit since we regularly film there. It’s always a pleasure to come in here. It’s like coming home!
How is Automoto doing?
Very good! We’re heading into the 49th season. The show will be 50 years old in January 2025. At TF1, it is the oldest. And on French TV, the third oldest! We are proud and honored to make it last as long as possible in a difficult environment. The automotive world is changing and evolving. Changing. But Automoto holds up! Our very good audiences demonstrate that the French still love cars, despite what we sometimes hear.
What is the secret to such longevity?
We make sure that the show concerns everyone. You need dreams, passion, naturally, but also practical information, current events, on the price of gasoline, on insurance, for example. The key to success is this mix.
Lots of reports, quite a few thrills… Which one struck you the most?
What immediately comes to mind is Le Mans Classic 2023. The celebration of the centenary of the 24 Hours. I had the unexpected chance to drive three fabulous cars: a Chevron B16, a Shelby Cobra and a 1926 Bugatti Type 35. Traveling through the history of the automobile in the space of a weekend, from the Dunlop curve at the Arnage bend via the Hunaudières straight line, it’s an exceptional gift that the owners of these jewels gave me.
At 51, do you still have a dream to achieve?
Why only one? I have plenty… Take the start of any historic event, that’s it! On the track, on the road, tomorrow, the day after tomorrow… Because I love old cars. On board, we find this pleasure, this freedom, which is disappearing with modern, autonomous, connected vehicles. I’ll never grow tired.
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