Jose Maria Lopez and Kamui Kobayashi combined to set an average lap time of 1:38.118 to take a third pole position of the season for the No.7 Toyota TS050 HYBRID. Lopez set a blistering pace from the very start to set the foundation for Le Mans qualifying hero Kobayashi to build on, and their margin to the second placed No.2 Porsche 919 Hybrid was just 0.154s. 

The reigning champion No.1 Porsche 919 Hybrid will start third ahead of the No.8 Toyota Gazoo Racing TS050 HYBRID. 

G-Drive Racing, Porsche GT Team and Aston Martin Racing claimed the pole positions in the remaining classes in what were all closely matched duels.

Following post qualifying scrutineering checks, the No.26 G-Drive Racing ORECA 07 Gibson was found to be non-compliant with LMP2 Technical Regulations (Art.3.5.6d, front part of skid block deflects more than 5mm). 

The car’s qualifying times have all been cancelled but it will be allowed to take the start of the race from the back of the grid (Stewards Decision No.11).

The outcome gives the No.38 Jackie Chan DC Racing ORECA its first class pole position of the 2017 season.

With the scene set for another fascinating WEC race, Sunday promises to be a memorable battle between the world’s most spectacular endurance sportscars. The start of the race is scheduled for 13.00 local time.

Results

- FIA WEC press release -

- Communiqué du FIA WEC -

Photo (AdrenalMedia.com - FIA WEC): Toyota factory drivers Kamui Kobayashi and José Maria Lopez, who secured the pole, with team-mate Mike Conway.