Last weekend our team, accompanied by our race car, the eax02 called "Hannah", set off for a very unusual race track for us. It went to the Nürburgring, where the 1000 km race took place last weekend, an endurance classic for historic vehicles. To bridge the gap between historic and modern motorsport, we were invited to move into pit 33 as guests and represent the development in motorsport.
After our pit was completely set up, we welcomed race director Henning Meyersrenken, who gave us the happy news that we would be allowed to drive our eax02 "Hannah" around the Grand Prix circuit of the Nürburgring during the race weekend. During the day, we were also able to take a first look at the historic racing cars in the neighbouring pits.
Saturday started with the qualifying for the 1000 km race. Thanks to our own pit, we were able to use the pit lane to experience the other race cars up close and at the same time prepare our eax02 for its big appearance after qualifying. During the final touches, an interview about our team, our car and Formula Student was broadcast on the track. Then it was time: "Hannah" left the pits, drove over the Pit Lane and then onto the Grand Prix circuit.
Led by the safety car, we completed two laps and were then able to bring "Hannah" back to the pits unharmed to receive numerous new and interested guests. Afterwards, the preparations for the 1000 km race began, where all participants enjoyed the open paddock and the gridwalk before the starting signal was given. We would like to take this opportunity to warmly congratulate the winners of the long-distance classic, Björn and Georg Griesemann, on their outstanding success after six and a half hours of racing.
But that was not all. An impressive award ceremony and a fascinating exchange with other drivers and motorsport enthusiasts followed.
On Sunday morning, different types of vehicles had the opportunity to complete experience drives. For us, too, it was a matter of getting "Hannah" ready to do two more laps of the Grand Prix circuit punctually at 12:15. After this exciting weekend, the team was able to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the race track and finally stowed "Hannah" safely for the journey back home.
This event was not only an unforgettable experience for our team, but also a unique reward for our hard work over the past year. We would especially like to thank Joachim Langen, one of the race directors, for his commitment to making this unique experience possible for Ecurie Aix. We would also like to thank everyone who showed interest in our project, as well as the numerous helpers around the race track who ensured our safety.
The drive on the Nürburgring was a very special form of post-season testing. Now we are looking forward to the challenges ahead and to continuing to be part of the motorsport world.