Grand Marshal at Fuji Speedway this weekend - Henri Pescarolo is finding it difficult to cross the paddock efficiently as fans constantly stop him to take photos, sign autographs or just show him their own precious memorabilia from his rich history of racing in Japan.
The man who has done everything within motorsport is respected globally for his achievements, but as well as his home country of France, the Japanese race fans also especially revere his achievements both at the wheel and as boss of his own successful team.
“Racing in Japan was always interesting, mainly because they understand the sport so well,” said Pescarolo, just after he signed a scale model of the Joest Porsche 962 he campaigned at Fuji in 1989. “Technically, and also from a sporting sensibility the Japanese public really appreciate the drivers, teams and engineers. They really love the 24 Heures Du Mans and the sporting principles that it represents. Endurance racing and the Japanese racing culture are a perfect mix.”
Pescarolo, who competed many times at Fuji Speedway and was among the first European (Gaijin) drivers to compete at the fabled ‘old Fuji’ in the late 1960s.
“The track then was unbelievable,” says Pescarolo. “After the straight we went in to a downhill banked section and you had to be very brave indeed. There were full grids then too so there was not too much room for everyone and the speeds were incredibly high. It was an incredible experience.
Pescarolo will flag the 27-car grid away at 11.00 local time today and is looking forward to witnessing what he believes will be an epic event.
“The ingredients are all here in the FIA World Endurance Championship, “ he said. “The battle between Audi, Porsche and Toyota will again be a special one. For sure, as always at Fuji, the best men will win!”
Sam Smith
