Loïc Duval: “Our goal is to be competitive next year and to fight for the victory in Le Mans”

Loïc Duval, driver of the #94 PEUGEOT 9X8, talks us through his 2023 season with Team Peugeot TotalEnergies. A tough season for the French driver highlighted by some positive notes, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans where the #94 9X8 led the race for several hours.

Talk us through your season and how you feel it went.

“It was a tough season in general. I think we started with the worst in Sebring. The track was not easy on the car and on top of that we were discovering the track and its characteristics. For the following races we kept improving to be as ready as possible for Le Mans, which is the highest note of our season. Until 3am we were fighting for the lead facing the strong competitors which is quite positive. The reliability of the car, that took us far in the race without any mechanical issues and the teamwork are some strong elements that we will remember.

“During the second part of the season, we had a small return on investments in Monza with a first podium for the team, we really performed there, especially with the #93. The #94 had a small technical issue, otherwise I think we could have fought for a podium. Finally, for the end of the season, we had nothing to lose but we worked a lot to already prepare for 2024.”

During the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the PEUGEOT 9X8 led the race twice, how did you feel at that time during the race?

“I was proud for the whole team as no one was expecting us to be at the front. It was very important for the team spirit. We had a tough start of the season, so I think that for the mechanics, the engineers, the management, and the communications/marketing it was very rewarding to see the car on top, fighting for the lead until late into the night. It’s also a great sign for the future as we have a solid base to start get ready for next year. Our goal in 2024 will to be more competitive and fight for the win at Le Mans, which is the number one goal for everyone.”

Did the podium at Monza bring some fresh air to the team?

“Of course, it was nice. At Le Mans we saw the first signs of performance and reliability come together and to confirm this at the next race with a podium was very good for the team. We saw that at the chequered flag the team was so happy and enthusiastic, it was positive for everyone.”

What does it mean for you to be a factory driver in the Hypercar era?

“I’m very proud to be part of the golden age of Endurance racing in the FIA World Endurance Championship. To be able to race with so many manufacturers, teams and drivers is great.”

You are also one of the F1 consultant for Canal+, how do you like it?

“I discovered this universe, the backstage, when you are on the other side of the camera. I find it very interesting, F1 is the top of our sport so being able to live it from the inside is really rewarding. To get to know really what is happening onsite is so different from watching a GP from home on your television. I’m also part of a very professional team and Canal+ is doing a great job in terms of broadcasting. It’s a nice challenge, but my priority is still racing, even if it is good to discover some GP in parallel.”

 Is it important for you to have other commitments apart from your drivers’ duties?

“Yes, it’s important as it allows you to see things differently, to think about something else and to keep moving. I always raced in several championships at the same time or did some consulting on TV, it’s great to stimulate your daily life.

Apart from that, as many drivers my age, I have some investments here and there, so I have to work on that. And then you have all the physical preparation and the work with the team to perform well on track.”

What are your plans and expectations for 2024?

“My plans are similar to those of 2023. We must keep working with the team to create a good link with Stoffel (Vandoorne) who is the newest element to the line ups. It is important to me that we all learn to work together. As racers there is a lot of work to do to reach our common goal: win. For now, we haven’t reached it. We know that the road won’t be easy but we will be there in 2024 to fight even more!”