Roman Rusinov is a name that resonates within the world of endurance racing. Known for his grit, skill, and determination, Rusinov’s journey from his early days in Formula Renault to becoming one of the standout drivers in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) is nothing short of inspiring. His career is defined by perseverance, as he has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the track.
Rusinov’s story is not just about his victories but about his ability to keep going, despite setbacks. His passion for racing has always been evident, and he’s shown that even in the face of adversity, the drive to succeed remains unwavering. From his first international victory in 2000 to his role as a key figure in G-Drive Racing, Rusinov’s impact on the sport is undeniable.
A Career that Spans Multiple Disciplines
Roman Rusinov didn’t start his career in endurance racing. His journey began in the single-seater ranks, where he made history as the first Russian driver to win an international race in Europe. This victory in the 2000 Renault Finals was just the beginning. Over the next few years, he competed in various categories, including Formula Palmer Audi and Euro Formula 3000. But it was endurance racing that would ultimately capture his heart.
In 2004, Rusinov made the switch to endurance racing, marking the start of a career that would take him to the world’s most prestigious circuits. He won the GT2 class in the Le Mans Series and, over time, moved up to the LMP2 category. His transition to endurance racing was marked by consistent results, and it wasn’t long before he became a fixture in the European Le Mans Series and the FIA WEC.
Roman Rusinov – A Career in Numbers
| Personal Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Roman Aleksandrovich Rusinov |
| Date of Birth | October 21, 1981 |
| Place of Birth | Moscow, Russia |
| Nationality | Russian |
| Racing Licenses | FIA Silver (2005-2013), FIA Gold (2014–2021) |
| Notable Achievements | First Russian winner in international European race, Multiple titles in FIA WEC, ELMS, and Asian Le Mans Series |
| Current Involvement | Racing in the European Le Mans Series, and rally raids |
Rusinov’s dedication to the sport has been evident in every race he’s participated in. Whether competing in the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans or battling it out in the European Le Mans Series, his consistency and skill have made him one of the most respected drivers in the endurance racing community.
Resilience in the Face of Challenges
One of the most admirable aspects of Rusinov’s career is his resilience. Racing is full of challenges—unpredictable weather, technical issues, and fierce competition—but Rusinov has consistently shown an ability to overcome these obstacles. His time with G-Drive Racing has been a defining part of his career, with the team becoming one of the leading names in endurance racing under his guidance.
Despite a few setbacks, including a disqualification at the 2018 Le Mans 24, Rusinov has never been deterred. He has always bounced back, learning from each race and refining his approach. This resilience has played a crucial role in his success, allowing him to remain at the top of his game year after year.
The Future of Roman Rusinov
Looking ahead, Roman Rusinov’s story is far from over. In 2023, he ventured into rally raids, competing in the T3 category for G-Drive Racing. This new challenge saw him take on the Russian Rally-Raid Championship’s Gold of Kagan Baja and the Silk Way Rally, where he finished runner-up in the latter. His victory at the Silk Way Rally in 2024 was a testament to his adaptability and skill in different racing formats.
Rusinov’s return to endurance racing in 2025 is highly anticipated. As he teams up with Graff Racing for the Dubai 24 Hour, fans and experts alike are eager to see what the future holds for this legendary driver. His ability to transition seamlessly between different forms of motorsport speaks volumes about his versatility and his love for the sport.
For more insights into Roman Rusinov’s career and upcoming racing projects, visit his official page on GT Masters.
