Jeannine Belnou is what is known as a local legend. For over 48 years, the restaurant ‘aux portes du circuit’ has been located directly at the main entrance to the race track in Le Mans. The pictures on the walls tell stories from this long history. One shows Jeanine with Charlene of Monaco and her husband Prince Albert, whom she once met at the circuit. Others are testimonies to the long history of the 24-hour race in Le Mans, which was held for the 101st time this year. Her personal favourite is Henri Pescarolo (four-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and French national hero). Mr Le Mans, as he is known here, came to Jeannine’s bar several times.
In 2023, Jeannine thought about quitting. The long days became arduous. Health problems took their toll on the now 72-year-old. The Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) was supposed to take over the restaurant. But Jeannine decided otherwise. ‘The bar is my life’ and ‘the local people need me’, ‘for many, the bar is their living room’ said Jeannine. And so she continues to this day. Fortunately for us!
She also showed her big heart towards us. They had forgotten to include the necessary car park tickets with our accreditation. A catastrophe at this event. Parking is only possible in the official car parks. If you can’t get in, it’s difficult. Very long walks are then inevitable. We were sitting over an espresso on Jannine’s terrace when we thought about a solution to the problem. Jannine’s solution was simple: “Just leave your car with me! I’ll look after it!” she said to us. And so it happened. And when we got back, we enjoyed an end-of-day espresso with Jeannine. Her behaviour is proof of the great French hospitality and the German-French friendship. We are already looking forward to next year’s espresso with Jannine. Au revoir princess!
