Bergmeister predicts rapid GT2 pole

He set the fastest GT2 lap yesterday, a 4:00.106, and finished the session nearly seven tenths clear of the IMSA Porsche, which was second in class.

Bergmeister's lap yesterday was a new record for the current GT2 class but he says the first ever sub four-minute GT2 lap is a possibility this evening.

"I think four minutes can be broken, but it would need some luck, a perfectly clear lap and everything," he told autosport.com. "But it can be done if you put everything together.

"Last year we did a 4:01 and I wouldn't be surprised if someone does go in the 3:59s, either a Ferrari or a Porsche. Maybe I have to do a couple of sub four-minute laps so I can get out in time to watch the Germany (Euro 2008 football) match!

"The times usually get quicker on day two because there's more grip, but we'll have to see what the weather will do because there is rain forecast."

Bergmeister believes the battle between Ferrari and Porsche will be close, with the quickest Ferrari - the Virgo Motorsport car - just one second behind him yesterday and noticeably faster on the straights than last year, although the Porsche remains the straightline speed benchmark.

"I was surprised by Ferrari," he added. "I was running behind one down the Mulsanne Straight and I got on the radio and said 'bloody hell, this Ferrari is quick down here', so whatever they're done they've gained a lot in a straight line."