Jean-Louis became, after his Formula 1 and endurance drives, a hugely successful endurance rally driver and constructor, perhaps best known for his Paris-Dakar rally achievements. He also won the Africa-Eco rally five times, including in 2014 - after which, he announced his retirement from driving. Schlesser now organises the Africa-Eco rally himself and his passion for it is down to it being almost a direct replacement for his beloved Paris-Dakar rally route-wise. As well as this he also runs other rallies, including the Algeria-Eco rally. Jean-Louis is based mostly in Monte Carlo but also in Senegal. In 2021, Jean-Louis found himself in trouble with the law, charged with violence with a weapon and possession of a weapon after attacking a restaurant owner in Nice who Jean-Louis suspected of having an affair with his wife. He was given a six-month suspended prison sentence as a result.

Biography last updated 9 Mar 2022