With only 7 weeks until the grand finale of the European Le Mans Series at the famous track of Road Atlanta in the USA, it is time for Mathias Beche to get prepared. For the young Swiss driver, the goal has already been set: a victory in LMP2 and to become the 2012 ELMS Champion!
During the summer break, what was your programme? Rest and relaxation or sporting activities to prepare for the final round of the 2012 season?
“I took a two week holiday in the south of France, to take a break after a busy early season. The 24 Hours of Le Mans was quite demanding in terms of preparation and involvement, physical, mental, but also from an organizational aspect with about forty partners present on Saturday and the creation of an “all inclusive” trip to follow my race from the inside. A brief rest after the race of Donington, while still training daily, mainly running and swimming. I want to be on top form for the final round of the season at Petit Le Mans and also prepare for 2013.”
This year, the ALMS and ELMS seasons will both take place in a very prestigious race: Petit Le Mans. What do you think about this common final?
“From a drivers point of view, racing the Petit Le Mans is an incredible experience. For me it is something great and I’m really looking forward to be there. I’ve already had the chance to test in the US in Miami (Daytona Prototype) which I have fond memories of. I really like the American mentality, the proximity to the spectators, the atmosphere, the show. In this difficult economical situation, I sometimes think that it would be a great thing for us in Europe to draw on the American way of racing, in order to attract spectators and new sponsors. Right now I am very close and particularly involved with my team. I have almost daily calls with them and I can realize the difficulties in organizing such an event. They must organize quickly, the ATA (customs), solve logistical problems, as they have another race in World Series by Renault during the same time. The engine rebuild schedule was originally planned for two 6 hour races, so now of course the costs are significantly higher than the two European rounds put together. It is a real challenge to be there, but I have great confidence in my team Thiriet by TDS Racing, I know that they are working flat out to be ready. The fact that the finals will be together with the ALMS will make the race even more exciting!”
Road Atlanta is a demanding layout for both drivers and cars. How are you approaching this great event?
“I prepare for this race like any other, each event is as important as the other, be it Donington or Le Mans. I try to be as professional as possible, I still have a lot to learn and this race will be a great experience and offer the chance for me to develop my racing knowledge. I like the layout of the circuit which is quite fast, traffic and strategy are the always keys to success.”
With your teammate Pierre Thiriet and Team Thiriet By TDS Racing, you’re leading both Team and drivers Championships. What’s your strategy for the overseas final?
“The strategy is no strategy! There are only three races and this one counts double points, so we must aim for the highest step of the podium. Of course, we must understand how the American races works and stay on the leading lap. Ten hours is a long race, so we have to keep calm. To aim for the win, we must still be running at the end of the race, as anything can happen. The approach we have had since last year is good and we have to keep this momentum going. I must continue to work hard to make the difference and guide Pierre, who has reached a new level this year. We have a very good car, a great team, a super atmosphere, so everything is in place. Let’s make the job to take the title !”
Source : Mathias Beche