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Tom ‘Mr. Le Mans’ Kristensen reflected on the 1997 running, which marked the first of nine historic 24 Hours of Le Mans victories.
Tom Kristensen, nicknamed ‘Mr. Le Mans,’ won his first of nine historical 24 Hours of Le Mans victories in 1997 with Joest Racing, eventually becoming the driver with the most wins in this renowned endurance motor racing event. His remarkable success began with this initial victory and continued with six consecutive wins with Audi Team Joest. Kristensen, as a Rolex Testimonee, shared his childhood dream of becoming a racing driver and his inner determination to pursue and achieve this goal. Reflecting on his memorable first win in 1997, he highlighted setting the lap record and winning the race within days of signing with Joest Racing. His dedication to success was further emphasized by commemorating his second victory with Audi in 2000 by purchasing a specially engraved Rolex Daytona, a timepiece that holds deep significance for him. Kristensen’s outstanding 50% win-rate from 18 starts solidified his legacy as Mr. Le Mans, alongside the respected ‘Monsieur Le Mans,’ Jacky Ickx, who won the race six times. Additionally, Kristensen praised the endurance triple crown races — Le Mans, Daytona 24 Hours, and 12 Hours of Sebring — highlighting their importance in motorsport and the values of teamwork, reliability, and precision that define endurance racing and Rolex’s significant contributions to the sport.
