Back to its Roots: The 1973 Ligier JS2 Returns to the Track at Le Castellet.
From April 25 to 27, 2025, Circuit Paul Ricard hosted the 7th edition of the Grand Prix de France Historique. More than 200 iconic cars took to the track for a weekend dedicated to classic motorsport. Among them, the 1973 Ligier JS2, entered in the “200 KM du GPFH GT & Protos” endurance race, turned heads. Restored and run by the Ligier Classic department, it was driven by Jacques Nicolet, President of Ligier Automotive, and Pierre-Olivier Calendini.
An Iconic Endurance GT
Unveiled in 1971, the Ligier JS2 marked a major milestone in the history of the brand founded by Guy Ligier. After early forays into motorsport with the JS1, the JS2 represented a bold leap toward the top tiers of international endurance racing. Designed as a high-performance and reliable GT, it was initially equipped with a Ford Cosworth V6 before quickly being upgraded with the iconic Maserati V6. The car reached its peak in 1975 with a stunning second-place finish overall at Le Mans*, just behind the Mirage-Ford of the Gulf team.
The 1973 JS2 Back on Track: Performance and Heritage
Entered by Ligier Automotive through its Ligier Classic department, the JS2 #58, built in 1973, made a brilliant return to the track at Le Castellet. Fully restored by Ligier Classic, it proudly sported the green and yellow colors of its iconic period sponsor, BP.
Qualifying twenty-sixth on the grid with a lap time of 2:36.042, the JS2 #58 competed in the weekend's only endurance race—the 200 KM du GPFH GT & Protos. Despite competition from more modern models, it delivered a consistent performance over the 90-minute race, which included two mandatory pit stops. On Saturday, April 26, it crossed the finish line in 19th place out of 35 entries, with a best lap of 2:33.403, and claimed third in its category.
Jacques Nicolet: “A Return to Ligier's Roots”
“This was a deeply emotional experience for me. The JS2 represents the brand's beginnings in the 1970s, an era shaped by Guy Ligier's vision. It's the original car—the one that raced at Le Mans in 1973 with Guy Ligier and Jacques Laffite. Seeing it back on track, with Michel Beaujon, one of the original engineers, by our side all weekend, was a powerful moment.”
“The car ran flawlessly. It was one of the oldest in the field, yet we finished 19th overall and third in class. That's a real achievement.”
“What impressed me most behind the wheel was the chassis' efficiency and the consistency of the braking. We were blown away by the car's capabilities. The engine was running in its 12-valve endurance spec, so it was limited. We're looking forward to driving it with the 24-valve Maserati V6, which is currently being rebuilt by Ligier.”
Ligier Classic: Bringing Heritage Back to Life
The Ligier Classic department is dedicated to the restoration, maintenance, and operation of historic Ligier models. The goal: to bring these cars back to life while staying true to their original spirit, and ensuring strong on-track performance. The 1973 JS2 is a prime example of this expertise, with a meticulous restoration faithful to the original model and race-proven reliability.
“Restoring historic vehicles is a key part of our strategy,” explains Jacques Nicolet. “We're developing this program in the former Tico Martini and Guy Ligier workshops in Magny-Cours. This Ligier JS2 is just the first step. More will follow.”
A Ligier Formula 1 Car Also Back in Action
Alongside the JS2, another Ligier thrilled the crowd: the 1983 JS21 #26, entered in the “Masters Racing Legends F1 – Pre 85” category. Although not run by Ligier Automotive, it served as a reminder of the brand's rich legacy. Driven by Mister John Of B and Soheil Ayari, it qualified fifth, finished 16th in Race 1, and 5th in Race 2.
The Story Continues on the Track
The participation of the 1973 Ligier JS2 in the Grand Prix de France Historique is more than just a nod to the past. It's a strong commitment to celebrating and preserving French automotive heritage. Thanks to the work of Ligier Classic, these iconic machines are coming back to life—much to the delight of fans, collectors, and brand enthusiasts.
*Three Ligier JS2 cars were entered in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, two with Maserati engines and one with the Ford Cosworth. It was the latter that secured second place overall.
To know more about the Ligier Classic Department contact contact@ligierautomotive.com