Le Mans Series drivers at the Total 24hours of Spa

Olivier, tell us about your calendar! A busy timetable!

It is true that I have a double programme this year but I am not complaining; many drivers would like to be able to say the same. Between Le Mans Series, the GT Tour, the 24 hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Spa, I am lucky to drive regularly.

How do you adapt from a proto to a GT?

They are very different. During my career, I have mainly driven single seaters and prototypes; models with important aerodynamics. In proto, driving is done by brute force; the more you attack the faster you go.  

I had to adapt to the Ferrari 458 as driving a GT requires another philosophy. The tyres deteriorate faster for example. The driving has to be smoother.

Which do you prefer to drive?

Without hesitation, prototypes!

Spa is one of your favourite circuits! Why?

Spa is one of the most beautiful circuits in the world. Truly one of a kind. Between the Raidillon and Blanchimont, the hilly circuit is very fast in particular in the turns. Driving on it is extremely pleasant.  But also very difficult. The weather is always uncertain; it can be raining on one portion and fine on the other side of the track.  

You will be participating in the upcoming 24 Hours of Spa. What does this mean to you?

It is my first time and will be a discovery. It is a very popular event, different from Le Mans but it will be necessary to be resistant and serious to cover the whole race.

Tell us about your team, your team-mates!

I will be with the OFREV Auto Sport Promotion team managed by Jérôme Pollicand. An experienced team with many titles to its credit in particular in the Porsche Matmut Carrera Cup. Definitely one of the best teams in terms of results.

I get on very well with my team-mates and am very pleased to race the 24 Hours with them. Julien Jousse is also in Le Mans Series, we know each other well. I have never worked with Patrice Goueslard, but we have met several times in the paddocks.

Together we will be strong and form an experienced team.  

What is your goal?

When I get into a car, it is to be in front and to win. But it is a long race. The challenge will be to race intelligently and try to land a podium.  

The first free tests will be held on Thursday 28 July from 9 am to 10:30 am; the prequalification session from 2:15 pm to 3:45 pm before getting to the heart of the matter with the qualifying sessions from 7 pm to 9:35 pm and from 10:35 pm to 11:35 pm.

The non stop 24 Hour race will begin at 4 pm on Saturday July 30th.