Olivier Panis disappointed by the ACO

Olivier, on Monday you told us that your participation in the 24 2010 Hours was dependent on the regulations. Have the ACO statements enlightened you?
Not really. Until I know what the rules consist of, I will not be able to comment on my participation. On the other hand, I was very disappointed to hear certain comments. The ACO says that what has been done for gasoline-Diesel parity is incredible, that it?s great. When they see that, this evening, we will be 6 or 7 seconds from pole, I think they will reconsider these comments. What disappoints me is the anti-objectivity of the ACO. They are good people, but they defend their interests. I hope that everything said this year will be constructive, leading to parity next year.

As you say, the ACO says it has made efforts. Yet are the gaps still there?
Yes and when we talk to them about it, they kick in, as usual. I am someone who accepts error and who can talk about it. Apparently, they don?t have this state of mind. In any case, I will really wait for the regulations to come out to find out what I will do next year.

What if we end up with the same differences in 2010?
I will not come. It's certain.

However, Le Mans it?s a great race, with great teams?
Yes exactly ! What the ACO does not realize is that very good private teams bring a lot to the table.Endurance, they are the ones who make the set. Personally, I have nothing against manufacturers. If a manufacturer offers me a steering wheel, I will listen to it. But without private teams, like Oreca or Pescarolo, Le Mans will not exist as it once existed. It would be a shame if these teams left Le Mans for a settlement issue. I even find that dramatic.

So the current regulations would lead to the departure of many teams?
I am convinced that many teams will leave, whether in LMP1 or LMP2. Today, the settlement goes to no one. Everyone is complaining in the paddock. There is, in addition, the conflict between Audi and Peugeot in relation to aerodynamics. The fault of the regulations which leaves doors open to certain interpretations. You have to be concrete and constructive.