Memories of Le Mans: Richard Lietz
In the run-up to 24 Hours of Le Mans – the penultimate round of FIA WEC Season 8 which takes place from 19-20 September - we quizzed various WEC drivers about their past experiences from the legendary event.
Next up in our series, we hear from Porsche GT Team’s Richard Lietz who will compete in his 14th Le Mans this September. He also has three class victories from this event, so certainly knows what it takes to win a gruelling 24 hour race. Below is what the Austrian driver had to say.
What is your first memory of Le Mans?
“Easy - the flying Mercedes!”
And what is your favourite memory of competing there?
“My very first Le Mans back in 2007, winning with a French team in France was special. Also working together for the first time with legend Norbert Singer is something that I will never forget.”
What’s your favourite section of the circuit and why?
“I love the straights. Le Mans is one of only a few tracks where you feel the slipstream and you can play with it. For me this is very special and unique at this event.”
What is key to the perfect lap at Le Mans?
“It’s not easy, as we have low downforce set-up so the balance is set for top speed but not so easy to drive. Key is no traffic and if you get some, use the slipstream.”
If you could go back in time and choose to compete in Le Mans on any year, what would it be and why?
“I think 1998 would be a good year. The Porsche GT1 is one of my all-time favourite cars, working together with Norbert Singer and the Porsche works team would be my choice.”
If you could choose any two team-mates (dead or alive), to compete at Le Mans with who would they be and why?
“Walter Röhrl and Stig Blomqvist. Mostly because I have so many rally-based questions for them!”
Click HERE to read about Sebastien Buemi’s memories of Le Mans and HERE for Filipe Albuquerque.
