Audi newboy Marcel Fassler is pleased with the progress he has made during practice and qualifying at Le Mans, as he prepares to start the event with the works Audi team for the first time.
The Swiss is teamed with German Andre Lotterer and French driver Benoit Treluyer in Audi's #8 R15 plus TDI for this year's 24 Hours. The drivers are all new to Audi's factory Le Mans lineup, though Fassler made some American Le Mans Series appearances with the works Champion team in 2008.
"Every car had its own program," said Fassler. "We had long runs to look for the tire and how far we could get on each stint. We were not focusing on qualifying, but really getting the race setup fine-tuned."
Fassler said he is gelling well with the team and is looking forward to starting the car in tomorrow's race.
"This is something quite special for me to drive with Audi at Le Mans," added Fassler. "It's a great honor and a challenge. It's a great feeling to be part of the team, but I want to be successful, not just part of the team.
"If I'm honest, I will be a bit nervous and maybe not sleep as tightly tonight as other nights. I have a responsibility to bring the car back in one piece, but at the same time I don't want to lose sight of our competitors.
"I'm confident and looking forward to it. I will be thinking of Jo Siffert, who is the most famous Swiss racing driver associated with Le Mans."