Patrick Pilet: “Allowing IDEC to reach a new level”

How long have you been discussing this program with IDEC?

Since the arrival of 24 Hours of Le Mans, where I was called at short notice to replace Dwight Merriman (injured in free practice. Editor's note). I was very well received and got along well with the whole team.

Was LM P2 a priority for you? ?

Having found a car that suited my driving style perfectly, I rushed to contact various teams. But my priority was to stay with IDEC, because there was a real common desire to collaborate. With its family atmosphere, combined with a desire to do well and true professionalism, it is a team that makes you want to work hard.

What will you be able to bring him?

I am lucky to have worked with small teams and large factories. Even though I am new to proto, I hope – with my expertise, experience and ideas – to help him regain the title ELMS and to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans (June 12-13, Editor’s note). We have already gotten to work. I hope to enable IDEC to reach a further level.

How, at Porsche, did we react to this announcement?

I am still affiliated with Porsche, which remains my main employer (even if he is no longer officially a factory driver. Editor's note) and which has put together a program for me which will be announced later. Porsche gave me carte blanche and even encouraged me to do it.

From the perspective of the LMDh?

Obviously I have the LMDh in the back of my mind. My ultimate goal remains to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans overall and last year's experience with IDEC reinforced this idea even more. I just have to show what I can do behind the wheel of this type of car, while building something with IDEC and having a great season. With Paul-Loup (Chatin. Editor's note) whose talent we know and Paul (Lafargue. Editor's note) who is today one of the very good Silvers, I think we have a good chance to play.

Find all the information on the 2020 ELMS season in the AUTOhebdo magazine, currently available on newsstands and in digital version.