Robert Kubica Achieves Le Mans Victory, Completing Endurance Racing ‘Highest Goal’ After Near-Fatal Crash
Robert Kubica, who once faced a career-threatening injury, has triumphantly secured victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, marking a significant milestone in his endurance racing journey. This win fulfills what he describes as his ‘highest goal’ in this discipline, overcoming the odds after a severe rally crash in 2011 nearly ended his racing career.
The Polish driver shared the winning WRT team car with teammates Robert Shwartzman and Yifei Ye. Their No. 41 Oreca 07-Gibson clinched the victory in the LMP2 class, adding a remarkable chapter to Kubica’s inspiring comeback story. The race was not without its challenges; a mechanical issue requiring a pit stop threatened their lead, but the team demonstrated resilience and skill to regain their position and ultimately secure the win.
Kubica’s journey to Le Mans victory is particularly poignant given the extent of his injuries sustained in the 2011 crash. The accident severely damaged his right arm, raising doubts about his ability to return to high-level motorsport. However, through determination and extensive rehabilitation, he defied expectations, returning to Formula 1 in 2019 with Williams.
Speaking after the race, Kubica expressed his elation and gratitude. “It’s difficult to describe my feelings… There were a lot of emotions in the last 24 hours, and especially in the last hour-and-a-half,” he said. He acknowledged the team’s collective effort and the hurdles they overcame, highlighting the unpredictable nature of endurance racing. “In racing, you never know what is going to happen until the end. What happened, happened, and we are winners. I have to thank the team and my teammates. We are all very happy.”
This Le Mans victory not only underscores Kubica’s exceptional talent and perseverance but also serves as an inspiring testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity. His journey from a life-threatening crash to the pinnacle of endurance racing is a remarkable achievement that resonates far beyond the motorsport world.
