Racers in Isolation: Jose Maria Lopez

Sportscar365 is asking drivers from around the world what they’re doing during the COVID-19 pandemic and how they’re coping with the racing downtime.

Toyota Gazoo Racing LMP1 driver and FIA World Endurance Championship points leader Jose Maria Lopez (Twitter/Instagram) features in this edition.

Where have you been situated during the coronavirus pandemic?

I have been in Argentina, staying at my parents’ house. After the cancelation of the Sebring race, I had no choice but had to fly to Argentina.

Have you been spending the lockdown?

I have my training routine and I’m also using a simulator that I have at home.

What music, TV and films have you been enjoying recently?

I like to listen to Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and that kind of music. I haven’t really been watching TV but from time to time I like to watch a good series.

Do you have any pets?

Yes I have, at home in Argentina we have seven dogs!

What’s the best bit of advice anyone in motorsport has given you?

The best advice was from someone who told me is that never give something for granted, work hard and never leave something for tomorrow.

If you could be the boss of the WEC for a day, what would you change?

That’s a very difficult question; I believe to be at that position you have to be very prepared and it’s not easy at all. But I am happy and love endurance racing, so I wouldn’t change much.

What was your first job? Or a job that you have had outside motorsport?

I consider myself very lucky to have had the opportunity to always work as a racing driver!

What’s the one thing you are most looking forward to the first day you return to a racetrack?

Jumping in the racing car and to spend time with the team and my teammates. I’m really missing racing.