They’ve done Le Mans
The 85th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans is now coming to an end. Beyond the drivers and cars themselves, are also all of those who, for the last two weeks, have worked behind the scenes to best prepare this incredible race. Whether outcomes have gone beyond dreams or remained under initial expectations, once the chequered flag has been waved, one can feel a very special atmosphere inside each pit garage. That’s it, each in their own way have taken part in this legendary challenge. They have done Le Mans.
Lionel Chevalier – Engineer – Team Signatech-Alpine Matmut
“A holiday week in Le Mans! It was sunny, hot, lots of people were there… No, seriously, I’m obviously disappointed with the outcome. We arrived here very hopeful since we were defending the title and we wanted to retain it. We knew it would be tough considering the very high level this year. We thought our past successes would play in our favour but right from the start our fastest car (#36) compromised its chances to win. In the end it’s the #35 that delivered a strong and flawless performance, catching up with the second place in the LM P2 class. 30 minutes away from the finish line we had an issue with the brakes which cost us a lot of time and meant that we finished 4th. So, yes, we’re all very disappointed tonight, we’re going to keep our minds focused on the next edition. If we could do it again? Less heat, less hazards, because this race has really been tough.”
Eric Trouillet – Driver – Graff Racing
“This week in Le Mans was thrilling. Just to be here for a start, and to take part in the race was a great joy. We then realised what the event was like really: its difficulties, its layout, how demanding it is physically, the input needed from the entire team. It really strengthened our relationships within the team. Crossing the finish line was a very positive outcome for us on our first entry in Le Mans. We obviously definitely won’t forget such a race and we want to come back. We will approach the rest of the season with less pressure after this adventure.
If we could do it again, we’d correct the mistakes which have taken the podium away from us. But overall, we’d make the same choices again.”
Samantha Leeks – Plasturgist – Jackie Chan DC Racing
“It was really a lot of work but the result is fantastic. It was the most exhausting race, emotionally, that I had ever taken part in.
Now we need to recover from it and the first thing to do is sleeping! But before that, we’re also going to celebrate our victory tonight with the entire team. Then we’ll have to get ready for Nürburgring, repairing all the broken parts. If I had the chance to do it again, I wouldn’t change a thing!”
« Noaksie » – Chief mechanic – DragonSpeed
“I’ve loved this race. It was really intense yet fantastic. I’m going to rest now, have a beer with the team and sleep. We’ll leave tomorrow. Soon we must look at the next race at the Red Bull Ring. Going back to the workshops, preparing the cars but also have some time off. If we could do it again? I’d go for it! Not right now, but we’ll be back, to fight for victory! We’ve made progress, particularly with our pit stops. It was the team’s first entry so, to complete the race was already an achievement in itself.”
Graeme Lowdon – Director – Manor
“This week was really tiring, full of challenges of all sorts. If you’re not tired at the end of Le Mans that means that you haven’t worked! Now it’s time for some rest, with a good drink and a good night sleep! If I could do it again? I’d make sure that drivers do attend drivers’ briefings!”