Racing Phenom Reveals Le Mans Safety Secrets for Victory
In a heart-pounding revelation, racing star Renger van der Zande unveiled the ultimate strategy for conquering the treacherous 24 Hours of Le Mans set to unfold on 14-15 June.
Van der Zande stressed the critical importance of securing a top qualifying position to navigate the chaotic opening phase of the iconic endurance race. “Being safe also means you want to be in the front when you start this race,” he emphasized during an exclusive interview on the ‘Wheels Up Flight Deck.’
The skilled driver highlighted the significance of avoiding the mid-pack mayhem by securing a front-row position. “If you’re in the middle, that’s where the chaos happens, and also in the back,” van der Zande cautioned, underlining the pivotal role of qualifying in setting the stage for success.
With his #22 Oreca 07 team clinching a spot in Hyperpole, van der Zande underscored the dual focus of qualifying – aiming for a strong start while fine-tuning the car for the grueling race ahead. “The starting position is not going to indicate who’s going to win, but it makes life easier, so that’s why we want to be in the front,” he revealed.
Despite the intense spotlight on the race itself, van der Zande emphasized the strategic significance of qualifying, which can make or break a team’s chances in the epic endurance event. Having previously competed in the Le Mans race with Chip Ganassi Racing, van der Zande expressed his delight in returning to the competitive LMP2 category alongside his talented teammates Pietro Fittipaldi and David Heinemeier-Hansson.
“LMP2 is good fun,” van der Zande enthused, praising the nimble nature of the cars in the category. Describing them as “almost like a go-kart,” he highlighted the exhilarating driving experience offered by the lightweight, agile vehicles. “It’s one of those categories drivers enjoy coming back to from Hypercar, and that’s what I’m doing,” he added.
As the countdown to the adrenaline-fueled race intensifies, van der Zande’s insights into the crucial interplay between qualifying performance and race-day success offer a tantalizing glimpse into the high-stakes world of endurance racing.
Don’t miss the action-packed saga as van der Zande and his formidable team gear up to conquer the legendary Le Mans circuit and outmaneuver their rivals in a bid for glory.