WEC – Duval: “It was not possible to do more”

The crew of the No. 2 Audi has been exemplary this season. If it's the #1 sister car of Tréulyer-Fässler-Lotterer which won at the 6 Hours of Shanghai, third place won by the R18 of Loïc duval, Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish is enough to secure the Drivers' title for the last winners of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The new champions of WEC posted their worst performance of the season at the 6 Hours of Shanghai following their successes at Silverstone, Le Mans and Austin and their second places at Spa-Francorchamps, Sao Paulo and Fuji Speedway.

After the Formula Renault Campus in 2002, the FR 2.0 France in 2003, the Formula Nippon in 2009 and the Super GT500 in 2010, Loïc Duval is experiencing the most prolific year of his career with his first victory at Le Mans and his first world title. “This season offered both great hopes and a certain pressure. After all, I ride in the best team in the world”, declares the Frenchman. “We have always given the best of ourselves and we are rewarded with this world champion title. This season offers an incredible feeling because we also won Le Mans together. It was not possible to do more. »

If Loïc Duval's teammates are experienced, the flavor of the title also brings indescribable joy to Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish. “I once finished vice-world champion in karting and I am now world champion with Audi”, underlines the Dane. “We also struggled against last year's champions and we had to maintain a high level of play. Loïc, Allan and Audi Sport Team Joest did a fantastic job. » The Scot also hoped to add the WEC to his list of achievements. “I've been waiting for this moment since 1985 (his competitive debut). I had already fought for the world title in karting. I didn't have any real luck F1. But it worked in my third discipline. I am proud of what we accomplished this year. Things worked out very well. For me, the race in Austin was a very important element in our success today. My back is now soaked after Alex Wurz doused me with champagne. »

Discover the analysis of the 6 Hours of Shanghai carried out by our special correspondent in issue 1935 of AUTOhebdo, available from Tuesday in digital version on all platforms, and from Wednesday on newsstands.