Franck Mailleux has concluded his participation at this week’s pre-event test session at the Sebring Raceway as his Signatech-Nissan team ensure that all three of its drivers get sufficient track time ahead of this weekend’s opening round of the new-look World Endurance Championship (WEC). 

Franck completed his programme behind the wheel of the Nissan-powered Oreca 03 in Monday’s second session, getting himself reacquainted with the car, the Dunlop tyres and the demanding Sebring track.

A packed line-up of cars will contest the 60^th anniversary 12 Hours of Sebring on Saturday with a thrilling combination of American Le Mans Series and WEC cars. Sebring will be the first event on a calendar of eight races for the new WEC series, which will see Franck compete to defend LMP2 honours following his and Signatech-Nissan’s title-winning season in 2011’s Intercontinental Le Mans Cup (ILMC).

Franck Mailleux commented: “It’s great to be here at Sebring ahead of one of the season’s highlight races, the 12 Hours of Sebring. The atmosphere is already building and it is a privilege to be part of the 60^th anniversary event. We have had a trouble-free test session joining the other teams and drivers for two days at the circuit before the race event gets underway properly. Unfortunately, I have been feeling a bit unwell with some flu-like symptoms, which made my time in the car on Monday a bit difficult. It was good to get some laps under my belt but it is also important to make sure the new drivers get time on track, too. I look forward to getting back behind the wheel in practice on Thursday and building up our preparations for this classic race. It’s a really competitive field, so we need to make sure we are as prepared as possible to mount a podium challenge.”