Porsche 991 RSR: Interview with Patrick Pilet...

 
PATRICK PILET: "FOR US TO REFINE OUR WEAPONS!"
 
Patrick Pilet is one of two French pilots who will fly one of two Porsche 911 RSR Endurance World Championship with Romain Dumas. After a season in the International GT Open in IMSA Performance Matmut plus a few rods in the ALMS, the Auch share the wheel of the # 91 with Jörg Bergmeister on the entire FIA ​​WEC season, the duo is joined by Timo Bernhard 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is in the booth Team Manthey Porsche AG the German manufacturer has introduced its new baby to the press. It is a pleasure Patrick Pilet has unveiled the 911 RSR.
 
 
Laurent Mercier: This is the beginning of a new challenge for you with the 911 RSR?
 
Patrick Pilet: "This is a beautiful car and the beginning of a new challenge. I am very pleased to have been selected for this program. It has been 15 years since Porsche had not taken part in an official program in Endurance. In addition, I will play the entire championship. This year, the GTE-Pro looks even tougher than last year. Just look at the list of entrants for the 24 Hours of Le Mans where there is only official teams. It's just madness. That is a great season ahead of us and we refine our weapons!"
 
The first tests were positive?
 
"It took optimize everything and we still do not explore all areas of the car. The first tests were positive and all gaining momentum gradually. Team Manthey Porsche AG has the means to do well. We completed a lot of kilometers, even though the weather was not very favourable on some sessions. I am the only one to have taken part in all development. We will say that this car before us is the model 2.0 that I drove in late 2012."
 
It is much more successful than the old one?
 
"The car is a 911. However, there are many differences, especially in terms of control. To us to adapt. Found the sensations of 997. The wheelbase of the 911 RSR is elongated and wishbone front is different, which can help us especially on the edges. Everyone works hard to ensure that we are ready for Silverstone. There is a lot of pressure and the desire to do well. We want to win and demonstrate the potential of the car."
 
Before lifting the veil on the 911 RSR, the pilots of the Porsche Carrera Cup France were able to view exclusive. You continue your role as sponsor?
 
"This is a chance for them to be able to see the car. It is a way to tell them that's what you have to do! it can be yours in the future. (Laughs). I think the level will be even more than last year. I will be more present in the meetings according to my program. I'm really glad to be again the sponsor of the Porsche Carrera Cup France."
 
You have another program set with Porsche?
 
"I have to take part in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race with a preparer. The team will be announced shortly. The tour is fabulous and it's a little Disneyland for pilots. This is one of the last circuits where the pilot makes the difference. I took part in a race in 2012 and Olaf Manthey has asked me to start, which was a sacred responsibility. I completed all my stint in mind and I have very fond memories."
 
Do you have the LMP1 prototype in a corner of your head?
 
"I am fully concentrated on the 911 RSR program. For the record, when I signed my contract with Porsche in 2008, I told them that I wanted to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and not only in GT. At that time, I did not know that Porsche would return to the premier class. I'll take things as they come and I'll start with my best this season."
 

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