This Saturday, 30 August will be filled with sadness; when I learned of the death of Philippe Gurdjian this morning, I felt a strong emotion thinking immediately of his family and all of those who were fortunate to have known him as I did.

 

I had the great privilege to have known him and to have had a fantastic collaboration with him during my time at Toyota Motorsport, not only appreciating him as a great French motorsport professional, but also as someone who recognised true human values.

 

Beyond his sporting and racing past, Philippe was a builder: driven by a burning desire for new projects. The French Grand Prix, the Sepang and Bahrain circuits, the realisation of the spectacular Abu Dhabi circuit without forgetting, of course, the renovation of the Barcelona track or that of Paul Ricard. Listing all of these projects runs the risk of forgetting something so I will just say that Philippe really made his mark in motorsport and will remain in everyone’s memory.

 

Philippe, we will miss you and you will always remain in our memories as a great man. 

 

All of my sincerest and heartfelt condolences to all of his family.

 

From your friend, Ange.