Lietz expects a strong second act from Fassbender

Porsche works driver Richard Lietz feels Michael Fassbender is well-prepared for his second Le Mans start next weekend and deserves a better result after his turbulent debut at the event in 2022.

The Irish movie star, who will share Proton Competiton’s No. 911 Porsche 911 RR 19 with Lietz and Martin Rump, has been improving every time he steps in the car, according to the four-time Le Mans class-winning Austrian.

GTE Am’s 21-car field for the category’s final trip to Le Mans is set to be hotly contested, but Lietz feels the combination of Fassbender’s additional experience, Proton’s professionalism as an outfit and the 911 RSR 19 platform puts the trio in with a chance of turning some heads.

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Since Lietz was originally paired with Fassbender in 2020, Lietz has taken a lot of pride in helping him develop as a driver. Fassbender, he says, is a fast learner, who takes feedback and advice very seriously.

“The main reason that I am doing this is because he is a good guy,” Lietz told RACER. “He loves racing so much, and even if this project ends, he will continue. He is addicted. From the beginning, I have told him everything I know. Spending time with him at circuits is a pleasure, it’s like a good weekend with friends. Like racing when I started.