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Jann Mardenborough: A Triumphant Return to Professional Racing
In 2021, Jann Mardenborough made a pivotal promise to himself while navigating a significant career transition. After parting ways with the Nissan Super GT programme, the 2011 GT Academy champion found himself without a competitive seat for the year, signaling not just the conclusion of a five-year journey in Japan’s premier sportscar series but also potentially jeopardizing a decade-long professional racing career.
Despite the challenges, including the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mardenborough was resolute in his desire to reclaim his position in motorsport. The past few years were filled with trials, including moments of uncertainty and self-reflection. Throughout 2021 and 2022, he took on a role as a simulator driver for Nissan’s Formula E team, which kept him engaged in the sport but not behind the wheel in competitive events.
Fast forward to 2023, and Mardenborough has experienced a revival, competing in three one-off race events that he believes sustained his presence in the sport. Now, at 33 years old, he is set to return as a full-time driver, joining the GT World Challenge Europe during the 2025 season. He will pilot a factory-backed Ford Mustang GT3, teaming up with co-drivers Thomas Drouet and Arjun Maini.
“It’s taken longer than I expected,” Mardenborough reflected in an interview with Motorsport.com. “While I wished it could have been faster, I’m proud of my efforts in assembling the right people around me to create a scenario where I can showcase my abilities.”
His determination remains unwavering, with aspirations beyond just returning to the track. “There was ample time for introspection during these four years, where I had to ask myself tough questions about my commitment to this path, and my answer has always been yes,” he shared.
A Career Built on Passion
Mardenborough’s racing resume is impressive. He has triumphed in various competitions, including British GT, GP3, Super GT, and Japanese Formula 3, and made a memorable debut at the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2013 with a debut class podium.
However, what has recently propelled him into the spotlight is the release of the Gran Turismo film in 2023, which draws heavily from his singular journey in motorsport. Mardenborough’s beginnings were unconventional; he aspired to be a professional racer but faced financial hurdles in pursuing traditional karting paths. Consequently, he turned to online racing, a decision that ultimately paved the way for his career.
Despite initially pursuing a degree in motorsport engineering, he stepped away without a clear future and considered alternate career paths, humorously reflecting that he could have ended up designing furniture. It was during a gap year that he entered the GT Academy competition, a platform aimed at discovering racing talent through simulated events. Against over 90,000 competitors, Mardenborough emerged victorious, earning a professional contract with Nissan that launched him into the racing world.
A Role Model for Aspiring Racers
As Mardenborough approaches this new chapter, he recognizes that his journey has inspired others. “Things have changed significantly since 2011, as I now have young fans looking up to me,” he noted.
He has received numerous messages from aspiring racers motivated by his story and the film, reinforcing his sense of responsibility as a role model. “When faced with challenges, I remind myself that it’s not only my journey—there are others who look to me for motivation.”
The pressure is palpable as Mardenborough prepares for the upcoming six-hour season opener at Circuit Paul Ricard. He expressed confidence in his ability to quickly find his rhythm but also emphasized the supportive environment of his team. “I’ve joined a manufacturer that is serious about making a significant impact in sportscars and GT racing, providing me with ample opportunity to grow,” he stated.
Aiming for Factory Driver Status
The GT World Challenge presents Mardenborough with a unique opportunity to potentially elevate his status within the sport. His ultimate ambition is to officially become a “Ford factory driver.” Ford’s storied history in motorsport, notably its four consecutive Le Mans victories in the 1960s, sets a high bar, yet the company is looking to the future. Mardenborough is well-aware of Ford’s recent announcement about returning to the iconic Circuit de la Sarthe in 2027 as part of an LMDh programme in the World Endurance Championship.
“Let’s be straightforward; that’s where I want to be,” he declared. “It’s the reason I entered this programme. The discussions around potentially moving into Hypercars are exciting, as I feel prepared to take that next step.”
“I believe I possess the credentials, experience, and speed necessary to be a valuable factory driver. This environment is ideal for furthering my career.” He concluded with a pragmatic view: “I will take things one day at a time. While I’m not sure how my ambitions will unfold, what matters is my commitment to performing my best both on and off the track.”
Source
www.motorsport.com