Second Nature : Jérémy Azar, at Full Speed

For the past five years, Jérémy Azar has been pursuing his studies at the Paris School of Business in the Grande École Program. At the same time, he is a professional race car driver with the status of a high-level athlete. Competing last season in the Caterham 420R championship, Jérémy began his first season in the Ligier JS CUP France in March 2024. In our new series, "Second Nature," we met with him to explore his journey, balancing passion and academics. Here's what he shared.

Can you introduce yourself in a few lines?

My name is Jérémy Azar, I’m 24 years old, Franco-Senegalese of Lebanese descent, born in Dakar in a family where motorsport runs through our veins. From my earliest steps, I’ve been captivated by the thrill of the racetrack and the roar of engines. I’ve been living in Paris for seven years now to pursue higher education!

Jérémy Azar

Can you tell us about your studies at Paris School of Business?

I’ve been a student at Paris School of Business for five years in the Grande École Program, currently in my final year, specializing in a Master’s in Corporate Finance. I had the opportunity to spend my third year abroad in Miami, USA. It was an incredible experience that helped me perfect my English and gain new perspectives on business in general.

The Corporate Finance master's program aligns perfectly with my interests. I've always enjoyed data and analysis, and my scientific mindset helps me synthesize information effectively. I find a good balance between my Master’s program and my racing career.

Tell us about your journey in motorsport.

At the age of seven, I got behind the wheel of a go-kart for the first time, and since then, my life has been split between the racetrack and my studies. Through determination and perseverance, I’ve managed to excel in both areas.

With great humility, I can say that I achieved everything in Senegal. I’m a national champion in karting and car racing, both in sprint and endurance formats. Representing my homeland on the international stage is a source of immense pride for me.

When I arrived in France, I focused entirely on my studies for four years until I returned to racing two years ago. I participated in the Caterham French Championship.

Jérémy Azar

Having achieved multiple victories and leading positions in the category, I aimed for the championship title but finished sixth last season out of 40 drivers. This was due to a lack of consistency and recurring mechanical issues. However, those two seasons were valuable learning experiences, where I gained a lot by competing against France’s best drivers. I carry forward many positives into the future.

This year, I’ve stepped up to a more competitive championship, the Ligier JS CUP France. Unlike Caterham’s 30-minute sprint races, I now compete in endurance events lasting 4 to 6 hours or more, similar to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. I’ve also joined the Junior Program within this Ligier series, which awards the best junior driver a spot in the LMP4 European Championship next season. This is a genuine opportunity for young drivers to grow and build a career in endurance racing, which is more accessible than single-seater and Formula 1 racing.

Ligier JS CUP France

What are your goals for your career and the end of your studies?

As I mentioned earlier, my goal in racing is to be the best junior driver and qualify for LMP4 in the European Championship next season. This means giving my best in these competitions and steadily climbing the ranks. Professionally, I aim to enter the workforce immediately after earning my degree at the end of this year. Ideally, I’d like to work in finance, collaborating with Senegal to contribute to the country’s development, all while continuing as a high-level athlete.

 

 

What are the similarities between motorsports and a business school?

If I were to highlight similarities between motorsports and business school, they would be discipline, patience, continuous learning, overcoming setbacks, and most importantly, working hard to achieve success.

Jérémy Azar

Does "Where Business Meets Creativity" apply to motorsports too?

The entrepreneurial and creative spirit is definitely present in motorsports, particularly in the area of sponsorship. Sponsors are what enable us to race, so it’s essential to know how to approach and attract partners by offering innovative proposals to maximize their value. This requires strategic thinking and thoughtful planning. The skills I’ve learned in school, especially in negotiations, help me in this aspect both professionally and in my racing career.

 

 

How can we support you in your season?

Finally, I’d like to make an appeal to sponsors to help and support me in reaching the highest levels. Attractive tax benefits, marketing opportunities, and commercial partnerships are on the table. Motorsport is currently experiencing significant growth in popularity among the general public.

In addition to my potential and ambitions, my unique strength lies in the interest I generate as one of the few African and Senegalese drivers on the international stage. Diversity plays a central role in my story.

If you’re passionate about motorsports or would like to support our journey and need more information, feel free to contact me via email (jeremyazar@outlook.fr) or directly on Instagram: @jeremyazar.

Seconde Nature : Jérémy Azar, à pleine vitesse
Seconde Nature : Jérémy Azar, à pleine vitesse