Fernando Alonso: "In Formula 1, we are not a contender to win the championship, even though we're much better than last year, which proves we're headed in the right direction. Now Le Mans and the 24 Hours, an important race as it's the second round of the World Endurance Championship. We're in the lead after our win at Spa-Francorchamps. I've just arrived from the Canadian Grand Prix, the time difference is six hours, but it's only Monday so. I'm here now, already focused on the race and I'll be ready for the free practice on Wednesday. I wan't to take advantage of every minute in and out of the car between the sessions on Wednesday and the Drivers' Parade on Friday. I'm sure it will be very special."  

The two-time F1 world champion understands the importance of this race in history, especially for Toyota. "I think it's going to be a very special race for me and for the entire TOYOTA GAZOO Racing team. Our chances of winning are pretty good, it's true. We've done all the work, with plenty of testing this past winter, endurance and simulator sessions. Now, we just need to do a very professional race, with no mistakes, and we'll end up with a good result. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is a very special race, especially for Toyota who has never won. We are all focused on that goal. We want to bring Toyota to victory and make history. I really feel like the team is ready, more ready than ever! It's going to be a very interesting race I think."

PHOTO: LE MANS (SARTHE, FRANCE), PLACE DE LA REPUBLIQUE, 24 HOURS OF LE MANS, SCRUTINEERING, MONDAY 11 JUNE. Fernando Alonso poses between Sébastien Buemi (at left) and Kazuki Nakajima (at right).