Gone In 60 Seconds : Racing Driver Mr Oliver Webb
European Le Mans Series Champion and ByKolles LMP1 WEC racing driver Mr Oliver James Webb, talks racing the Le Mans 24 Hours and his love of cars. The historic Hill Climb at the Goodwood Festival Of Speed. And Mr Oliver Webb 's beloved Eleanor from Gone in 60 Seconds.
British European Le Mans Series Champion and ByKolles LMP1 World Endurance Championship race driver Mr Oliver James Webb, talks to us about racing, his love cars, movies and adventure. Find out what it's like to race the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Hillclimb at the Goodwood Festival Of Speed. And why Mr Oliver Webb is so fond of Eleanor from Gone in 60 Seconds.
Could you introduce yourself, and what you have achieved so far in your motor racing career?
My name is Oliver James Webb I’m a professional racing driver from the UK. European Le Mans champions and multiple championship winner.
How did you get into racing and who were you’re motor racing idols as a youngster?
I didn’t actually have any family in the sport like most people did who start in racing. Rather I just got into it at ‘arrive and drive’ style fun karting centers. Got an addiction which then hooked me into carrying on. My idol was Michael Schumacher growing up as a 90s kid.
Why do you love to race? And what is it like being a racing driver in a World Endurance Championship team?
The adrenaline is a big one and the risk factor is exciting however its more the engineering and design aspect of getting a car that finely tuned hooked up. With so many people involved and the external factors being so great and so many it’s amazing when the lap comes together.
Could you tell us about the LMP1 Le Mans racing car you’re currently driving? What do you like about it and how fast can it go?
It’s a CLM ByKOlles LMP1 car that runs 1200 NM torque to the rear wheels, weighs 750kg, and has around 850bhp with a top speed of about 360kph with lots of downforce.
What is it like to race in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, traditionally considered the pinnacle of motorsport?
Its obviously a very historical and special event that’s run for so long with the top teams and manufacturers in the world so to be involved and having stepped on the podium is amazing. The buzz of 500,000 people watching live and millions around the world to see the fastest cars out there compete though all-weather and day and night is special.
What is your favourite race circuit in the FIA World Endurance Championship?
Probably Spa or Le Mans. Due to the high-speed nature and downforce addiction I have.
You’re a bit of a regular at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, what do you love about the Hillclimb and the event?
I’ve won there a couple of timers in BAC Mono and driven up the hill every year for the last 8 years so it’s a special place for me. To be able to have all different types of cars from around the world in one place and the event is amazing. Can’t wait to go back.
Can you tell us about any cars in your garage, do you have a favourite?
Shelby Mustang GT 500 Eleanor, my favourite from the film Gone in 60 Seconds. Aston Martin Vantage and Audi S4.
You’ve taken part in the Gumball which looks a lot of fun, is that the best road trip you have been on?
Gumball is fun but I think the best was a Croatian road trip with friends through the country’s coastline. Amazing food hotels and a race track for some fun.
What’s your favourite racing film or car chase, apart from Eleanor from Gone in 60 Seconds?
Probably Senna due to its historical links but also Lauda Hunt film was incredibly shot using original cars in the film which I loved.
You’re known to enjoy extreme sports and keeping fit, what else do you do to unwind?
Train, travel, family time, housework – the usual stuff!
What are your future goals in racing, would you be tempted by Formula One or are you focused on the World Endurance Championship?
To Win Le Mans 24hour overall in an LMP1 or in class would be the dream and I’ll stay in FIA WEC until I can get the opportunity with the right team and situation to do so!
Oliver Recommends
Netflix Series: The Sinner
Late-night Gas Station Purchase: Lion Bar
Instagram to Follow: Me & @naila, @jacob
Podcast you’re into: Joe Rogan
Favourite Book: Senna
Racing Hack: Go Fast
Favourite Place to Wake Up: Maldives
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LE MANS FIELD WEAR
You can see more of Mr Oliver Webb in action on YouTube or at oliwebbracing.com, and follow more of Olivers’ adventures on Instagram @oliverjameswebb.
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