around you whereas in LMP1 you have to dive in and make the right judgment - it's a little more tricky."
Do you get to know who you can trust in that kind of situation?
"Absolutely. When you've spent a long time in the sport you know the cars and you know the numbers. Some guys you trust more than the others..."
(Heikke - Timo's PR Manager chimes in) "And the beginners as well!"
"Yes, inexperience too."
You're all professionals and you have a lot of time to test, but how much brain power does driving an LMP1 require of you?
"I was on loan from Audi so have been part of the project from the beginning and have helped build up the team. It was a tense moment when I saw the 2014 rules. Okay it wasn't a big shock but I didn’t know what it was going to be like. In the end it was still racing and the racing was better than ever. In the end the rules played out perfect and we use 30% less fuel."
The ACO have done a superb job with the regulations to keep the competition close, but do you sometimes wish you could showcase the full speed potential of these cars?
"I think it's unnecessary. By rule Formula One as a lighter, single seater category has to be faster. I endurance racing we need to have two seater cars, plus the cars are heavier. But if I think we can show the technology of these cars and that we're using less fuel whilst having close racing the series is doing very well.
I always think sports car racing has every element for the fan. Something that brings them here. The 'Boxer' sound of the 911. The Ferrari's. The hi-tech sounds of LMP1. This is what I find very attractive."
There's a beautiful shot from Le Mans of a blind man standing with his dog by the side of the track at Le Mans, just listening. I think that says it all.
"Absolutely. I've been to Le Mans seven times and each time before the start when you hear the national anthem you still get excited. You can't help but feel everyone watching."
Does it get any easier?
"I'm 33. I'd like to be younger..."
So would I!
"(Laughs) Yes, but you never stop learning. You have to step up."
E-Racing Magazine would like to thank Heike Hientzsch and Porrsche for their invaluable assistance in the interview with Timo Bernhard & next months issue with Andreas Seidl.
Timo's pre-race warm up engages a few football skills - pic Facebook