Antonio Fuoco conquers the second row at the end of the Hyperpole, behind the other Ferrari 499P: a different result from that of last year, when car #50 started in first position, but linked to the different track conditions and the absence of the heaters.
“Last year we could push from the first lap and exploit the peak of the tire more, whereas this year we had to prepare the tire for at least one lap before pushing and therefore we probably lost the peak performance of the tyre. However, I think that the main factor was the track conditions, because the time we set was in line with that of qualifying, where however there was always traffic. Last year, however, between qualifying and Hyperpole we improved from 1.5” to 3”. Being a very long track, the wind can change direction and this can also influence a lot in terms of lap performance.”
#50 Ferrari AF Corse Ferrari 499P: Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina, Nicklas Nielsen
Photo by: Alexander Trienitz
How does it feel to be here after last year? It was great for the team, but for you personally?
“Being here is always special, especially after last year, as we achieved a good result, especially with the #51, but overall it was a positive weekend. As a driver it’s always a pleasure to be at Le Mans, It’s nice to see all these people and their passion: since Sunday when we did the tests they were already around. It’s nice because they give you more motivation and encourage you to push even harder.”
How important was track position during qualifying and the Hyperpole?
“During the Hyperpole there were eight cars for each category, so everything went quite well, while in qualifying it was more complicated because the position of the garage also matters, so if you are in front you can exit a little before the others and wait the green light is at the back of the group and you go out on cold tyres, you don’t have time to overtake the LMP2s and GTs and your time may not be good because you find traffic on the push lap, unlike those in front who don’t find traffic. for at least two laps.”
Who are the opponents to keep an eye on?
“Since the tests we have been close to Cadillac and Porsche, but I think that during the race Toyota will also have to keep an eye on. Unfortunately they weren’t there during the Hyperpole, but if we look at their pace during free practice, especially in the sessions night, they were very strong, so I think that during the race they will arrive soon too.”
And what about BMW?
“It will be a close fight with everyone, but especially Toyota, Porsche, Cadillac because I think they have more experience and seem faster than BMW and Alpine. I think it will be tough with them.”
Does the fact that there are so many cars on the grid change the approach to the race?
“You can always get an idea of the approach to the race, of the scenario, but when the race starts you also have to follow what the others are doing. Last year for the first 4-5 hours it was an aggressive and Since midnight it has stabilized. This year, with more cars, I think everyone will want to show how fast they are and the cars that start from the back, like Toyota, will push to get back to the front.”
How difficult will it be to beat Porsche?
“Porsche has shown that it has a good car since the beginning of the season, in Qatar, at Imola and Spa they were very fast. This year they are very competitive and have 6 cars so it will be tough, even the Jota team, which despite not having participated in the Hyperpole is very fast. I think it will be really tough, we have done our best so far and I think that now everyone is waiting for the race to show where the various teams are at, and then fight among ourselves.”
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