Having started on the seventh row due to very temperamental weather conditions for the qualifiers, the Le Mans-based team did not expect such an untroubled run. Englishman Jonathan Coleman completed a faultless first stint; no mean feat among traffic jostling for position.

The start was very intense, cars were everywhere and I even had to go wide in order to avoid competitors. But after that I felt great in the car. During the first Full Course Yellow (FCY), I had a problem with my throttle, I did not understand what was going on. But the FCY slowed every one down and I could manage to clear the problem. After that, everything went great. It was really awesome to drive in front of my home crowd, and my favourite race track!

Vincent Capillaire was next up. Again, no mishaps.

My stops went very well and I did not make any mistake. That’s what we needed.

Olivier Lombard took over with 90 minutes to go.

I really wanted to avoid any mistakes, and once I was in the good rhythm, I just wanted to go to the end without forcing too much. My last 15 laps were clear and I was overwhelmed to see the chequered flag.

Third behind such experienced teams as G-Drive and SMP, S024! by Lombard Racing can be proud of their achievement. It bodes well for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The next test of form is the 4 Hours of Imola on Sunday 15 May 2016.

Geoffroy Barre — Translated from French by Emma Paulay

Photo: The Ligier JS P2 gives SO24! by Lombard Racing a podium in the season-opener.