Le Mans 2010: Race Report
Date: June 12-13, 2010
Location: Circuit de la Sarthe, Le Mans, France
Highlights
The 78th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans concluded with a dramatic victory for the Audi Sport Team Joest, marking a continuation of their dominance in endurance racing. Audi’s R15 TDI vehicles showcased exceptional performance, mastering the challenging circuit conditions.
Key Results
- Winner: Audi R15 TDI #9 (drivers: Marcel Fässler, André Lotterer, Benoît Tréluyer)
- Second Place: Audi R15 TDI #8 (drivers: Tom Kristensen, Allan McNish, Dindo Capello)
- Third Place: Peugeot 908 HDi FAP #07 (drivers: Nicolas Minassian, Marc Gené, Anthony Davidson)
The Audi #9 completed 397 laps, finishing with a lead of approximately two laps over the runner-up. The race featured intense battles, particularly between the Audi and Peugeot teams, with strategic pit stops playing a critical role in the outcome.
Technical Insights
Audi’s R15 TDI proved its mettle with robust engineering, emphasizing reliability and speed. The vehicle featured:
- A turbocharged V10 diesel engine, delivering superior power and fuel efficiency.
- A lightweight chassis designed for optimal aerodynamics, enhancing performance on the long straights and tight corners of the Sarthe circuit.
Peugeot faced challenges with tire management and overall pace despite maintaining a competitive edge early in the race.
Quotes
Marcel Fässler, driver of the winning Audi, stated, “This victory is a result of teamwork and the extraordinary performance of our R15 TDI. Staying consistent was key."
Tom Kristensen, celebrating his 9th Le Mans win with Audi, remarked, “It’s always special to win here; every lap matters and the atmosphere is unrivaled.”
Implications
This victory solidifies Audi’s legacy in endurance racing, further elevating their status as a benchmark in the category. The race showcased not only the technical achievements in modern motorsports but also the enduring spirit of competition among leading manufacturers.
Next up in the endurance calendar, teams will shift focus to the FIA World Endurance Championship’s subsequent rounds, as they aim to adapt strategies from the insights gained at Le Mans.
For full race results and detailed analysis, visit the official Le Mans website or follow coverage on leading motorsport news outlets.
