Scherer on Spa LMP2 win: “It was really unbelievable”
After scoring a debut FIA WEC victory at the season-opening TOTAL 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, series newcomer Fabio Scherer is now targeting his next success with the United Autosports USA squad.
Scherer, who will celebrate his 22nd birthday on race day at the 8 Hours of Portimão, took a maximum points score along with team-mates Filipe Albuquerque and Phil Hanson during a dominant display in Belgium.
Starting their WEC LMP2 title defence off in style, United Autosports USA have put down a clear marker to their direct opposition as they strive to retain their title.
An integral part of that is how Scherer has gelled within the team as he gets to grips with the Oreca 07 machinery in a season where the category has seen some key changes. These have included reduced downforce and an all-new spec Goodyear tyre being introduced.
Yet Scherer passed his test with flying colours taking over from the flying Filipe Albuquerque in the mid-portion of the race and developing an excellent consistency to contribute greatly to squad’s fifth WEC LMP2 class victory.
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“It was really unbelievable,” recalls Scherer. “When I took the car over we already had quite a massive lead but I was really nervous especially about things like driver changes and stuff like that, because I had never done them before.
“I think I managed quite well, and as soon as I got them into the rhythm, it was really good. I felt comfortable and never really struggled with anything. But to be part of such an amazing team and when you win your first WEC race, after not the easiest last two years, it's unbelievable.”
It’s fair to say that Scherer hit the ground running in WEC. Indeed, the Belgian venue had always been a track where Scherer had excelled at, scoring a best-ever F3 result with second place in 2018 when the Swiss driver beat current Haas F1 driver Mick Schumacher and IndyCar star Alex Palou.
It gave him an added boost heading in to Spa, although there were still several unknowns for him to deal with.
“I still couldn’t really believe how quick we were, especially for me as a rookie,” said Scherer. “I think I felt more pressure because I didn’t want to mess up. I thought I could do well, but it was very unknown for me and I had to deal with all the new things – FCY, driver changes etc. I think I had strong pace which was a great feeling and it’s the first time I’ve driven for so long all in one go!”
Scherer will next be in action for round 2 of FIA WEC which takes place at Portimão next month (11-13 June). Replacing Filipe Albuquerque in the squad for Portugal will be Paul di Resta.
United Autosports will also be competing at this weekend’s ELMS round at the Red Bull Ring in Austria, click HERE for more info on where you can watch the race.
