Greetings from Le Mans. After a long day of riding the rails, I finally arrived in the city made famous by a race. Le Mans is a fascinating town, which was established by the Romans, although the civilization here predates them.

The plane ride from JFK was smooth. If you come here, paying a little more for Premium economy is well worth it for your comfort.

Charles de Gaulle airport is one of the most beautiful airports I have ever seen. Everything is pristine and locations are well marked. The rail system here is very efficient. The trains run on time, and it is easy to get wherever you need to go.

The train station at Montparnasse is also a work of art. It is an upscale four level shopping mall with trains. Like Charles de Gaulle, it was clean and well maintained

The high speed train to L.e Mans was amazing. It was clean and quiet. I got some glimpses of the French countryside along the hour long trip.

Le Mans embraces the 24 hour race as few cities embrace their races. It is apparent from the moment you step off the train. Even the McDonald’s is decked out in che3ckered flags. I went to the Place de Republique last evening to find the area where scrutineering begins today. It is in one of the older areas of town, full of bars and restaurants. I am going back this morning.

Getting used to the six hour time difference is difficult. I am writing this at what is 2:39 am Eastern time in the US. I will try to publish posts at around 6 am Eastern but search your overnight social media for any ramblings I must put out as I write. I may also post at what would be mid to late afternoon.

Juncos vs. McLaren

I can’t leave town for one second before more Indycar drama brews. The incident involving Agustin Canapino. Nuncios Hollinger, and Theo Pourchaire and McLaren is beyond mind boggling. Juncos has always had a problem dealing with the rabid Argentine fans.

Last year they posted very mild statements when these same fans threatened their own driver Callum Ilott after a couple of on track skirmishes with Canapino. But death threats and they don’t say much/ The team relied on a strong statement from McLaren.

For their driver, Canapino, to like posts containing death threats, then deny them is the pinnacle of unprofessionalism. I hope Indycar talks to Ricardo Juncos about this matter. It is unacceptable for a team to so casually brush this kind of fandom aside.

I understand that McLaren has severed their partnership with Juncos Hollinger Racing. Good for them. It is best that they distance themselves. Wouldn’t it be ironic if Mclaren ends up signing Callum Ilott for 2025 after all? I always thought that Ilott driving for McLaren was the point of the alliance.