One of France’s greatest ever racing drivers – Jacques Laffite - made a special visit to the FIA World Endurance Championship paddock this weekend and was thrilled to soak up the atmosphere at the 6 Hours of Shanghai.
Laffite, a five time Grand Prix winner, also had a notable sportscar career which spanned five decades. In that time he raced for Ligier, Alfa Romeo, Renault and BMW. His most success came at the Monza 1000kms in 1975 when along with teammate Arturo Merzario he took victory in a WKRT (Willi Kausen Racing Team) entered Alfa Romeo 33 TT 12.
The 72 year-old Frenchman was making his first visit to a WEC race and was enjoying his experience, saying: “It is clear there is a good time for endurance happening in the last years,” he said. “The ambience here is nice with top teams and drivers. I especially like the top young French guys here in all the classes. It is nice to see.”
“I think we will see a close race here this weekend. From the events I have seen in 2016 there is little to choose and of course it is nice to see some Ligier cars here too!”
Photo: Telestar.fr
