For Khaled Al Qubaisi, one of motorsport’s most famous races is becoming more and more familiar.
Last year, Al Qubaisi and his Proton Competition teammates finished second in the GT Endurance AM class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, an experience the Emirati said at the time left him “speechless”.
“This is my third time racing at Le Mans,” he said as he prepared for the 2015 race, which begins this afternoon.
“With every year, I feel more relaxed with the surroundings of this championship. I believe the key to success is to drive without pressure, to try to be totally relaxed.”
Al Qubaisi, who is partnered with Christian Ried of Germany and Klaus Bachler of Austria will be aiming for another podium finish at least in the AM class.
They will line up 48th in the grid today, out of an overall field of 56 cars, and in sixth place in the AM category.
“Porsche have done all they possibly could for us,” Al Qubaisi said. “We couldn’t wish for anything better, we are getting the maximum out of this car.
“Yesterday we found out that the Aston Martins are very fast. They will be tough opponents just like last year. It’s a long race and it’s not just about speed, but they do have the advantage and it is theirs to lose.
“We will try to put as much pressure on them as possible. We have strategy and we’ll see what the conditions are like.”
Al Qubaisi has had time over the past week in France to take in the sights of Le Mans, which has held the world famous race since 1923.
“It’s my third time here so I am a lot more familiar with it now, and we’re used to the vibe,” he said. “It’s so important to be relaxed, not to be tense.
“When you get to this level. Everyone’s driving is excellent. What makes the difference is the mental capability and how you can control your emotion, because with stress you can lose your nerves.”
Last year’s success has increased interest in Al Qubaisi and his team this week during the practice and qualifying sessions, something he has enjoyed.
“They now know us here. Yesterday I was approached by one of the main newspapers here in the north of France,” he said.
“They wanted an interview. They are taking interest in us and want to know how we approach these races, and about the future of the sport in the region.”
Racing is only part of Al Qubaisi’s work these days.
As managing director of Abu Dhabi Racing, he is overseeing the development of young drivers in the Emirates at the Daman Speed Academy and he hopes his efforts can encourage the next generation of racing drivers in the UAE.
“When kids see us representing our countries, it inspires them,” he said.
“When I was a kid I never dreamed of watching Le Mans never mind taking part, now people see us and think anything is possible. This is one of the championships that I hope kids from our academy will take part in the future.”
Al Qubaisi’s future looks brighter too. Three years ago, Al Qubaisi’s target was to become the first Emirati to finish the 24 hours at Le Mans. His ambitions have soared since.
“First time we wanted to finish the race, second time we finished second,” he said. “So there is only one target left.”
akhaled@thenational.ae
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