Pierre Gasly was back in Le Mans today at the Bugatti circuit. Of course, the former member of Auto Sport Academy, now a driver with the Toro Rosso in Formula 1 for 2018, got behind the wheel...for fun but also for a good cause. As the sponsor of a portion of the Telethon, he took off with a couple dozen passengers individually who had signed up to do two laps each with him. It was all meant as a thrill ride aimed at providing a lifetime of memories. With stars in their eyes, the lucky participants described their experiences, for example: "He was talking to me while driving, but I couldn't even respond it was so intense. I had to wait until we braked to be able to speak," exclaimed one lucky passenger.

For Pierre Gasly, this detour to Le Mans on a particularly full schedule seemed like a sort of homecoming. Having lived more than five years near the circuit (at the Technoparc), completed his studies from middle school to high school graduation in Le Mans and done his first races in single-seaters (F4), the Rouen native knows almost everything there is to know about the legendary circuit. "Almost" because he has yet to claim a podium finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, so far anyway. "No I haven't! So this is definitely a photo opportunity!" he declares, impressed, standing in front of the famous steps. In pit lane, a surprise awaited him: his former car, an F4. With Pascale, his mother who has always supported him in his decision to become a racing car driver, Pierre reunited with the "small seat" and the feel of what started it all early in his career. "I was six years ago. It's a long time, but then again it's not," Gasly said smiling.