The Audi R18 in the deep end

Audi is preparing to compete in its first race with the R18 next week at the 1000 km of Spa-Francorchamps, the final test before the Le Mans event on June 11 and 12.

Published on 29/04/2011 à 15:22

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The Audi R18 carried out a conclusive test session last weekend in Sarthe, as it achieved the best time of the test day of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Nevertheless, the 1000 km of Spa-Francorchamps will represent a real life-size test for the new LMP1 of the brand with the rings which will find itself facing its rival, the Peugeot 908, in racing condition.

Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich emphasizes the importance of such a move. “ We want to use the race at Spa-Francorchamps again to prepare for Le Mans », commented the director of Audi Motorsport. “ It is important that the team learns to work together during a race before heading to Le Mans »

But beyond reliability and the strengthening of teamwork, it is the competitiveness of the R18 against the Peugeot 908 which will be closely examined. “ Spa will give us a first estimate of our level of competitiveness. This 1000 km event will be an extremely important preparatory race for us before the 24 Hours of Le Mans. ", he added.