After two heavy crashes for Allan McNIsh and Mike Rockenfeller, the Audi attack came down to a single car with Andre Lotterer having to hold off a hard charging Simon Pagenaud in the Peugeot.

While the Audi completed an incredible five consecutive stints on the one set of tyres in the afternoon, a change to fresh rubber at the final stop gave the young German the boost he need to stretch away from Pagenaud in the final 30 minutes.

“It was a very intensive race. I was pushing like crazy from the first to the last minute.” said Lotterer.

“I felt no boredom in the car. I gave everything that was possible. And I had no choice but to do that either.

“In the end it worked out. I’m simply happy that together we’ve managed to do this. All the mechanics and everyone else worked so hard to prepare the car.

“This is a great reward for many hours of overtime. Due to the two accidents yesterday was a difficult day for Audi Sport. I’m very happy that Allan (McNish) and Rocky are okay and that despite the accidents we’ve got a reason for joy.”