With a career spanning decades and a remarkable list of achievements under his belt, Darren Turner is undoubtedly one of motorsport’s most respected and accomplished drivers. Today, he plays a key role at Aston Martin as a high-performance development driver, helping to fine-tune the marque’s most exceptional machines. His deep connection with the brand dates back to 2005, when he first became a member of the Aston Martin Racing team, during which time he won three times at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, widely regarded as the toughest race of all.
As we approach the highly anticipated 2025 edition of the 24-hour race, we asked Turner to reflect on the moments that have shaped him into the racing legend he is today.
1. Winning Le Mans 2007 in the Aston Martin DBR9
This was the one we’d been chasing. The conditions were brutal; unpredictable weather, long safety cars and non-stop tension. But when that chequered flag dropped, and we stood on the top step at Le Mans, the emotion was overwhelming. Years of effort, preparation and near-misses all came together in that moment. A dream realised.
2. Winning the 1996 McLaren Autosport BRDC Award
This was the moment everything changed. Before the award, racing was my passion – but after that, it became my profession. It opened the door to a career I’d only imagined. Without that recognition, I genuinely don’t think I’d be where I am today. It was the ignition point.
3. Le Mans 2017 victory in the Vantage GTE
One of the most intense races of my life. It felt less like an endurance race and more like a 24-hour sprint. The field was ridiculously competitive, and we were fighting tooth and nail from the first hour to the last. To come out on top after a battle like that? Unbelievable. That win meant the world.
4. Back-to-back Le Mans wins in 2008 with the Gulf-liveried DBR9
There’s something magical about that Gulf livery – it’s iconic. To win again at Le Mans – and do it with such a stunning car – was surreal. Back-to-back victories at the most famous endurance race on earth… it felt like we’d made our mark in the history books.
5. Winning the 2023 Daytona 24 Hours with Heart of Racing
Daytona is legendary in its own right, and to win there with Heart of Racing was incredibly special. The team delivered a flawless performance, and we all left everything out on the track. When that Rolex Daytona landed on my wrist, I don’t mind saying – I had a huge grin. A real career milestone.
6. Racing with Colin McRae at Le Mans 2004 in the Ferrari 550 GTS
Colin was a true legend – fearless, fast, and just brilliant to be around. Sharing a car with him at Le Mans was both surreal and unforgettable. He brought a rally driver’s aggression and intensity into endurance racing, and it was a privilege to be part of that chapter.
7. Setting the production car lap record at Silverstone in the Valkyrie
The Valkyrie is like nothing else — raw, extreme, a masterpiece of engineering. Pushing it to the limit around Silverstone and setting the lap record… it was a full-throttle experience that left me buzzing for days. That car rewrites the rulebook.
8. Winning the TT at Goodwood Revival 2021
There’s nothing else like Goodwood Revival. It’s a celebration of racing’s golden era, where the cars, the outfits, the atmosphere – everything – feels like stepping into a time machine. Winning the RAC TT Celebration, the most prestigious race of the weekend, was incredibly rewarding. There’s no podium, but the feeling of crossing the line first in front of that passionate crowd, surrounded by racing history, was unforgettable. It’s a win I’ll always treasure.
9. Racing LM4 at Le Mans Classic 2023
Driving a pre-war Aston Martin on the Le Mans circuit was a journey through time. It gave me goosebumps. You could feel the spirit of the past in every gear change, every bump in the road. It was a beautiful reminder of where our sport began.
10. Being a Works Driver for Aston Martin for 21 years
And finally, the greatest honour of all: being a Works Driver for Aston Martin for the past 21 years. Two decades representing this iconic brand. It’s not just a job—it’s a deep, lifelong connection. I’ve grown with the team, shared triumphs and heartbreaks, and worn the wings with pride every step of the way. To be trusted with this role for so long… it means everything to me.
