Robert Kubica’s triumphant victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours race was marred by intense gearbox issues that threatened to derail his chances of winning “all the 24 hours”. The ex-Formula 1 driver, accompanied by Phil Hanson and Yifei Ye, navigated through a nail-biting race in the #83 AF Corse Ferrari 499P LMH, constantly battling with factory sister cars while grappling with persistent downshift problems.
Kubica revealed the harrowing experience, stating, “It was bad all the 24 hours. Unfortunately, it has happened when we fit the race gearbox. We thought this is something related to the settings, but it was not, so it was a tough one, especially in some particular corners.” The trio had to rely on their skills and adapt their driving styles to compensate for the gearbox issues, which added an extra layer of stress throughout the race.
Amidst the gearbox troubles, Kubica and his teammates found themselves in intense radio discussions as the Ferraris vied for position, leading to what Kubica described as “unnecessary risk”. Despite the challenges, Kubica managed to steer the #83 Ferrari to victory, marking a stellar achievement for the team.
Having narrowly missed out on a win in the previous year due to technical problems, Kubica expressed his elation at finally clinching the victory, emphasizing the unexpected nature of their success. He reflected on his journey at Le Mans, likening it to a nostalgic return to his roots in karting, highlighting the emotional significance of the win.
The race saw Kubica spending over three-and-a-half hours in the car, showcasing his endurance and determination to secure the win. His contribution to the team’s success was pivotal, solidifying his position as a formidable force in endurance racing.
Despite the challenges faced during the grueling race, Kubica’s resilience and unwavering spirit propelled him to victory, cementing his legacy as a Le Mans champion.
