ORECA aims for manufacturer deal in 2003

The crack French outfit is running a pair of Judd-powered Dallaras in this weekend's race. Despite being a privately funded team following Chrysler's decision to pull its support for this year, ORECA is expected to provide a stern challenge to the dominant Audis.

But de Chaunac knows that he needs a manufacturer if he is to win Le Mans again in the future.

"The attention of manufacturers is centred not only on Formula 1, but also on rallying," he said at the track today (Thursday). "Le Mans is a fantastic race to live on the inside, but the attention from outside is not as strong at the moment. Le Mans is no longer one of the most known and attractive races in motorsport - compared to F1 and rallying."

He added that the key to improving the race's profile lies in the promotion and marketing of the event, particularly through TV coverage.

As for this year's race, de Chaunac said that the Dallara-Judds have not shown their true potential so far in qualifying. Although the cars were sixth and seventh last night, the team has not found a perfect balance compared to last month's Le Mans test day, and will be working to go quicker tonight.