My seven wonders of Le Mans

Le Mans 24 Hours

Last weekend saw Benoît Tréluyer record his second successive victory at La Sarthe and the first for hybrid technology. With his Audi team making history, the French ace once again experienced thousands of emotions. Below are just a few.

How difficult is it to describe one's emotions and share with others just a tiny slice of the experience to stand atop Le Mans' famous podium while, at your feet, thousands of fans gather having also battled the night and tiredness? A few days after his second victory in a row, the Alençon-born driver - rather than explain what cannot be described - sat down to discuss a few of the small, intimate moments that, although occasionally lacking significance, have all contributed towards Benoît's victory at the 2012 Le Mans 24 Hours. Here are seven small wonders from his own personal experience...

Returning to Le Mans

"Although the Le Mans Test Day is not part of Le Mans week it is, for me, nevertheless still part of the event. I had not returned to the circuit since winning in 2011 but when I passed through the gates and entered the circuit, I shivered. Shivers of happiness! I hope that will happen again in 2013."

Scrutineering

"I didn't know how the fans would welcome me as one of the reigning winners. I must say that to have won Le Mans makes a major difference. Before, I was only slightly known to fans of motorsport. This time, that recognition was significantly wider. Never before had I heard my name chanted by fans. I do not strive to be famous, quite the opposite actually. But, on the other hand, I like having a relationship with people, with the fans. Appearing on TV is not really my thing. I have never dreamt of it. But it is quite nice to receive messages of encouragement and to know that you are being supported. These exchanges, however fleeting, are very important moments."

Pole position

"This year we organised ourselves a bit differently within the team. I was responsible for the car's basic set-up before André (Lotterer) was the first to use a new set of tyres due to the favourable track conditions. As he was doing well we decided to let him carry on. Last year I set the pole position lap. This time André really wanted to do it. He loves qualifying, loves to 'go for it' and it all just happened naturally. Marcel (Fassler) and I were never in doubt, except perhaps when Loïc (Duval) began to lower his lap times. He was really fast. At the time we were not on the correct tyres and he had us slightly worried. I know what you're thinking, that I am the first to say pole position is not important but, anyhow, in the heat of the moment it is always tempting to go for something that is right there to be grabbed. We succumbed to temptation!"