What the Drivers Said.....Qualifying
Quotes from the drivers following qualifying for the 6 Hours of Fuji.
Fernando Alonso – LMP1 Pole - No.8 Toyota Gazoo Racing Toyota TS050 HYBRID
“It’s disappointing for the team to lose the one-two in qualifying and it’s a pity for Mike, Kamui and José. We had pole position for a moment and then lost it following the track limits issue and now we have pole again. It will be a long race on Sunday, particularly as we saw the non-hybrid LMP1 teams are very close to us, but we are determined to win in front of our home crowd.”
Nicki Thiim– LMGTE PRO Pole - No.95 AMR Aston Martin Vantage
“It is always nice as a racing driver to go out there with fresh tyres and it always gives you a good kick. The new car seems to suit the track here. We actually have struggled here in the past but now we have a new car which produces more downforce and it is a good step and a big joy to drive around here.
“It means a lot to the team to get this pole position for the first time with the new car and know the progress we have made since Spa has been tremendous. It is only the fourth race for this car so it is great for the team.”
Anthony Davidson – LMP2 Pole - No.31 Dragonspeed Oreca07-Gibson
“It was really good to be on new tyres and low fuel for the first time in qualifying. I have driven the new tyres before, but not in full attack qualifying mode. The car really came alive; the best it has felt all weekend and we were expecting it to feel pretty good today.
“We had a tricky time yesterday but we worked hard with the set up and with the tyres, and it all worked together. Roberto (Gonzalez) put in a fantastic lap as well to bring it home and the whole team worked well. It’s good to be starting in the best position possible.”
Matteo Cairoli – LMGTE AM Pole - No.88 Dempsey-Proton Racing Porsche 911 RSR
“I have to say that if I am here it is only thanks to my teammate Satoshi (Hoshino) because he made the difference. I am very happy that we are on pole for tomorrow’s race but at the same time a little disappointed because I could not put the lap together.
“I made some small mistakes and I got one lap deleted. I didn’t show the best of my potential but Satoshi did the job and we are on pole.”
