Le Mans – Benoît Morand: “Aiming for the podium” in LM P2

Third at Silverstone and just one breath away from victory at Imola, the No. 43 Morgan-Judd of NewBlood by Morand Racing shone during the first two rounds of the European Le Mans Series in the hands of the trio Romain Brandela-Gary Hirsch- Christian Klien. Now it's Test Day (June 1st) 24 Hours of Le Mans which is looming. A day during which we will have to work towards the most important meeting of the year. Team principal Benoît Morand gives his impressions.

What are your thoughts on the first two races of theELMS ?
We are there in terms of performance, despite still lacking speed in qualifying, and in the race we were on the pace both at Silverstone and at Imola to fight at the front. I think nothing is lost as far as the European Le Mans Series season is concerned, but it is certain that we no longer have a wild card. For the 24 Hours of Le Mans, I think we will perform well. It's up to us to put all the pieces of the puzzle in place to have a great race, hoping that "Lady Luck" is on our side.

How are things going between your three drivers?
Alright. Everyone plays their role, and for Le Mans I have full confidence in Christian, Gary and Romain.

After fifth place in the LM P2 category last year for the team?s first participation, what do you expect from these 24 2014 Hours of Le Mans?
We hope to do better than in 2013, but so many factors come into play for what, in my opinion, remains the most difficult race in the world. We will do everything to prepare our car and our drivers as best as possible, but managing everything is impossible. I am confident of achieving a good result and aiming for the podium.

Don’t miss our 24 Hours of Le Mans Guide, available here in digital version, as well as in all kiosks.