Toyota beaten to the wire in qualifying

La Toyota TS040 Hybrid n°8 had dominated the debates from the first day in Shanghai in China, but in qualifying, the response of Porsche was sufficient to deprive Sébastien Buemi and Anthony Davidson for a new pole position this season. However, the duo from the Japanese manufacturer achieved the same average as the No. 919 14 Hybrid, but the latter having achieved its performance first, the honor of starting from pole rightfully belongs to it. Also note that Neel Jani is credited with the absolute best lap during this session. If disappointment is logical in the Toyota clan, optimism remains present in view of the race.

“It’s disappointing to miss out on pole while achieving the same average, but they had a very impressive first lap. It wasn't our best qualifying of the season, but we will learn from it, admits Davidson. For some reason I didn't have enough speed in the first lap and was struggling to find grip, so I did an extra lap to improve the average. If you look at the whole it could have been better for us, but well done to Porsche, they deserved it today. It will be a good fight tomorrow. »

“We would have liked to take home the bonus point for pole position, but the main points will be awarded tomorrow and we are fully focused on the race, proclaims the Swiss Buemi for his part. I think we are in good shape. » The No. 1 LM P8-H duo currently has a 29-point lead in the championship over the Fässler trio? Tréluyer? Lotterer, resident of Audi n°2.