For the first time since its introduction, the new weapon of Ingolstadt meets its opponents on the track of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Intercontinental Le Mans Cup.

Until now, the R18 had gone solo, without participating in the 12 Hours of Sebring, the opening round ILMC, preferring to test at the Florida circuit in the absence of its rivals. Little information has circulated about its performance, but it seems that until now it has not experienced any major problems. A first positive sign when we the concrete slabs that form the surface of the Sebring circuit are ruthless, either in testing or racing.

But nothing beats a real confrontation to calibrate its potential, especially against new Peugeot 908 seen at Sebring. This shows how much the presence of the Audi R18 is anticipated at Le Mans on the 24th April, before its planned racing debut on 7th May on another legendary and demanding circuit; Spa-Francorchamps, the scene of the second round of the ILMC, and last race before the big event at La Sarthe in June.

The official test day of the 24 Hours of Le Mans will be held on 24th April.

Jean-Philippe Doret

Photo: Sebring (Florida, USA), January 26, 2011. The nine drivers entered by Audi in the next 24 Hours of Le Mans took turns at the wheel of the R18 during private tests carried out on the track at Sebring.