Monday, February 21, 2011

Interview: Christophe Bouchut

19/02/2011

14h35
- Auto News
 
Interview: Christophe Bouchut Photo : Michel Legeay - ACO/NIKON
 

In the American team Level 5 Motorsports, there is a winner of 24 Hours of Le Mans 1993 returning to the ILMC programme.

Why has your team elected to enter ILMC? 

Christophe Bouchut: "For several seasons, gradually trying to steer towards the Level 5 Motorsports 24 Hours of Le Mans. After a learning season in Formula Le Mans, we are ready for the LM P2 category. The Intercontinental Le Mans Cup is a good opportunity to test ourselves against the best teams in Europe."

Why did you opt for a Lola chassis and a Honda engine?
"The engine choice seemed logical since HPD is located in the United States, facilitating exchanges. For the car, Lola was the safest option since other manufacturers started from a blank sheet, or almost."

Will it be a new chassis? "Yes."

There are two versions of Lola LM P2 prototype. Which did you choose? "We preferred the new closed coupe, mainly for the extra protection the roof, but for the slight aerodynamic advantage it provides."

When you drive the new car? "It is imminent. I will cast my seat on Monday at Lola's in England, and we will begin testing on Sunday, 27th February at Sebring. We have four days of testing to prepare for the first round of the ILMC on the same circuit."

What are the ambitions of Level 5 Motorsports this season? "To race at a high level and have the will to win in LM P2."

Do you know your teammates? "Yes. Scott Tucker is the team boss and a good commercial driver ..."

In 1993 you won the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Peugeot 905 ... A distant memory? "Unforgettable! It is the biggest win of my career. At that point, I went from being an amateur to pro driver. I am indebted to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and now I want to give this race what it offered me in the past. I am happy to bring an American team to discover Le Mans."

Eighteen years after your victory, you're still here ... "I'm not alone! Two mechanics from the time of the 905 are working on the Peugeot 908! And Olivier Quesnel (Director, Peugeot Sport) was my sponsor when I was a young driver!"

Do you closely follow the Peugeot's endurance programme? "Yes. I am proud to see a French manufacturer fighting for overall victory, especially since the discipline is tougher than it has ever been ... Le Mans is the best!"

Julien Hergault
Photo: 24 HOURS OF LE MANS, 12th & 13th June 2010. The Audi R10 driven by Christophe Bouchut last year retired mid-race.


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