Victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans is more than just crossing the finish line—it’s a deeply personal and collective achievement that means something different to everyone involved. But here’s where it gets fascinating: three drivers, Robert Kubica, Yifei Ye, and Phil Hanson, shared their unique perspectives on winning the 93rd edition of this iconic race, and their stories reveal just how multifaceted this triumph truly is.
At the official film premiere of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, these champions opened up about their journey with the AF Corse #83 Ferrari 499P. Each driver brought a distinct lens to their experience, showcasing the breadth of what this victory represents. Robert Kubica, a former Formula One racer, emphasized the race as a collective endeavor, where every lap is a small piece of a much larger puzzle. Yifei Ye, a rising talent, saw his win as a historic milestone for Chinese motorsport, symbolizing both personal and national pride. Phil Hanson, a seasoned LMP2 competitor, viewed the race as a crucial stepping stone to the Hypercar class, highlighting the invaluable experience gained over years of endurance racing.
And this is the part most people miss: these three perspectives aren’t just different—they’re complementary, painting a richer picture of what it means to conquer Le Mans. Let’s dive deeper into their stories.
Robert Kubica: The Teamwork Philosopher
When asked about the grueling 166 laps he completed out of the winning car’s 387, Kubica shifted the focus from his individual effort to the unsung heroes behind the scenes. ‘Le Mans is a challenge for everyone,’ he said. ‘Not just the drivers, but the mechanics, engineers, and everyone who prepared the car—not just at the race, but in the workshops months before. My laps were the final piece of a massive puzzle. Without them, we wouldn’t have been here.’ Kubica’s humility and respect for the team’s collective effort were palpable, especially as he reflected on the pressure of the final moments. ‘It was intense,’ he admitted, recalling a similar situation four years prior when a technical issue cost them the win on the last lap. ‘This time, being in the car felt easier than watching from the sidelines. I was focused.’
Yifei Ye: A Victory for the Ages
For Yifei Ye, promoted to Ferrari works driver in December 2023, winning Le Mans was more than a sporting achievement—it was a cultural breakthrough. ‘Chinese motorsport has never seen a success like this,’ he said proudly. ‘Being the first Chinese driver to win Le Mans is something I’ll never forget. The reaction on social media and TV was overwhelming. It’s not just a win for me; it’s a win for my country.’ Ye’s victory also carried personal significance, as he and Kubica had experienced heartbreak together in 2021, retiring on the last lap while leading in LMP2. ‘This win is redemption,’ he added. But what’s truly surprising is Ye’s connection to Le Mans itself. Having moved to the city at 14 to join the FFSA Academy, he considers it a second home. ‘I even took my driving test here,’ he laughed. ‘So, in a way, it’s almost a home win.’
Phil Hanson: The LMP2 Graduate
Phil Hanson’s journey to Hypercar success was paved with six LMP2 starts at Le Mans, including a class win in 2020. For him, LMP2 is the ultimate training ground for endurance racing. ‘There’s no limit to the experience you can gain in LMP2,’ he explained. ‘Every year brings new challenges—weather, track conditions, competition. This year’s race was a true test of attrition, flat out for every lap. All those years in LMP2 built the foundation for this win.’ Hanson’s perspective underscores the value of patience and persistence in motorsport. ‘I raced against Robert and Yifei in LMP2,’ he recalled with a smile. ‘I couldn’t capitalize on their last-lap misfortune back then, but it’s all part of the journey.’
A Victory, Three Perspectives
These three narratives—Kubica’s emphasis on teamwork, Ye’s celebration of cultural significance, and Hanson’s appreciation for the LMP2 pathway—highlight the multidimensional nature of Le Mans success. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Does the meaning of victory change depending on your background, or is it the race itself that shapes your perspective? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on what makes Le Mans so special.
