Le Mans – Priority to racing at Audi

Audi could well line up for the 82nd edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans with its three R18s. The Ingolstadt manufacturer replaced the chassis of the No. 1 following the terrible crash suffered Loïc duval who will have to give up his place to Marc Gené. “It was important for us to place our three cars on the grid as best prepared as possible despite the serious accident on Wednesday”, comments Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, Head of Audi Motorsport. “Even though we had another minor accident with the No. 1 yesterday, we came out OK. We focused on the set-up for the race and we now have a good foundation on all three cars. »

However, the Audis were behind during qualifying, even if the sessions were interrupted on numerous occasions by track exits. The first R18 is only in fifth position, Oliver Jarvis having set a time of 3'23"271 more than a second from pole after being slowed down by yellow flags. “We knew qualifying was going to be tough.”, recognizes the Briton. “We focused on the race and I think we accomplished our goal. »

André Lotterer placed the No. 18 R2 in sixth position, falling just five thousandths behind the sister car. “It was both satisfying and frustrating qualifying. We were able to properly adjust the car and work on the tires. It’s a shame that spectators were deprived of the show due to the long “slow zone” deployed at the end of the session. I could only do good times in the first two sectors. »

The #1 Audi completes the list with a lap from Lucas di Grassi completed in 3’25”814. “After Loïc’s accident this Wednesday, qualifying was more of a burn-in for us”, explains the Brazilian. “We have a few issues that have been resolved (sensor issue). We were able to complete many laps and the car is ready to race. »

The start of the 82nd edition of the 24 Hours will take place tomorrow at 15 p.m. and will be followed live and in full on AUTOhebdo.fr. Photos of the tests can be viewed on this link.