Motor racing driver Marc Gené is originally from Catalonia, Spain, but now lives in Madrid. He is best known as a tester for Williams and Ferrari in Formula One, Minardi Formula One driver and factory driver for Peugeot's Le Mans team, with which he won the 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans. He had 36 starts in Formula One, mostly through two seasons with the Minardi team, with which he scored a sixth place finish at the attrition-filled 1999 European Grand Prix. From 2010 season, Marc Gené comments the F1 races for Spain's TV broadcaster LaSexta. Marc also made an appearance at the new Ferrari and Maserati showroom opening at C de Salamanca and i-Marbella had the chance to interview this charismatic driver.

1. Have you been to Marbella before?

Besides this event, I've been in Marbella twice before, but I haven't had much time to spend time here and look around. I always come for work - I'm the ambassador of Ferrari.

2. Why is racing your passions?

I started with go-karts when I was young. I love driving fast and most of all I love competition. That's why racing is for me!

3. What is your formula of success?

Work, work and work! Also discipline and being very persistent. That is my formula! But everytime I lose, I still know I did my best and I still continue to do what I do!

4. What was your first car?

My dad bought me a Ford escort, when I was 18. That was my first car.

5. What kind of a car do you drive now?

Right now I have a Maserati. 

6. What is your favourite car?Why?

I love Ferrari above all. I think its the best looking car and of course the fastest! Ferrari 458 is my favourite.

7. What are your ambitions and dreams now?

I won 24 Hours of Le Mans race two years ago. I would love to win that race again! That is my goal.

8. What are you other passions and hobbies?

I'm actually a very quiet guy.  I love to read for example. At the moment I'm reading Los Pilares de la Tierra by Ken Folle. I also like psychological and self-help books a lot. 

9. What are your plans for the summer?

I'm going for a vacation in Mallorca and also spend time at home with my kids.

10. What do your kids think about your job and you being famous?

I have two children, one is only 3 and the other 5 years old. They don't understand that yet, but when they see me in the TV, they don't understand why I don't wave to them or say hi. Ha ha ha...