Michael Waltrip is a perennial star around the NASCAR garages in the United States, but a complete unknown here in Dubai.  With no fans requesting autographs or media asking questions, the AF Corse Ferrari F430 driver can concentrate fully on the race.  One thing is certain, he is taking these 24 Hours of Dubai very seriously.  More than thirty minutes before taking the track for the qualifying session, Michael already has his helmet on, with a track map in the right hand as he gestures the corners with his left.  A few moments before taking the wheel, he turns back to the screen to memorize the layout of the track one last time.  At the close of the session, the MWR (Michael Waltrip Racing) owner makes his way over to us for a quick chat about his new experience, and also to talk about his future in endurance racing.

Laurent Mercier: Michael, how did the session go?
Michael Waltrip: “Very fun! (laughs) It’s my first time here and I’m already hooked.  The layout is varied, but totally different from what I know in NASCAR.  I had only tested the car last fall at Vallelunga with Robert (Kauffman).  We decided to partner with AF Corse for this race, Robert being part owner in Michael Waltrip Racing.  I’m happy with my time and I’m confident for the race.  I’m convinced with have the potential to win it, which would be good for a first time.”

Is traffic a problem?
“Obviously, it’s not an oval. (laughs)  That said, it’s not completely foreign to me because we run on a small track in Tennessee (Bristol) where we have to pass a lot.  It’s not unusual to pass six or seven car a lap.  The car is less powerful as the one I’m used to using.  At first, I was thinking, ‘am I at full throttle here?’ (laughs)  The F430 has half the power as the NASCAR Toyota Camry.  The steering is also totally different.  I feel like I’m turning the wheel a lot.”

Is it possible that we will see you again in endurance racing?
“Absolutely!  I’m hoping to run in the 24 Hours of Spa this year, still in an AF Corse Ferrari F430.  Robert (Kauffman) and I would like to be at the start.  I know it’s not easy for us, since the NASCAR series has so many races, which leaves us without much time.”

Could the 24 Hours of Le Mans be part of the program?
“I really want to do the 24 Hours of Le Mans.  That said, I don’t think that it will happen for this year, but more like 2011.  I’ll be there in June, but only to discover the atmosphere and track.  Whether it’s in a prototype or GT, I want to do this race!”

Rainier Ehrhardt (with Laurent Mercier)