The problem posed by differing technologies like Audi's TDI in LMP1 will keep Penske's program in LMP2 for the time being. (LAT photo) » More Photos

Q: One of the questions we're asked most often regard the team's plans of going to Le Mans? Is that part of the program for the next couple of years?

A: "We get the same questions. Le Mans is a completely different kettle of fish. It's a 24-hour race, and it's a huge expense. That's a decision that Porsche has to make. We [Penske Racing] haven't raced there since the 1970s with the Ferrari 512. I'd love to go back. But again, with the cost of racing today and the availability of sponsorships and only being able to run in LMP2, I don't think we'd be ready to go until we could challenge for leadership in LMP1. I'm not indicating whether we're going or not going. It's really not my decision. It's up to Wolfgang Durheimer, the Porsche board and management, and the motorsports department."

Q: Are you aware of any plans to move up to LMP1?

A: "Again, next year our plan is to remain in LMP2. So that would have to be a 2008 decision. I don't see it in the cards right now. It's a new car and a new engine. If you're going to start competing with diesel engines and hybrids and other things coming, it really starts to cloud the future because the expense to convert from one engine configuration to another is very large. And I'm not sure you get the value of that from the fans sitting around in the paddock and around the track.

"I'd like to see a consistent series where we have a set of rules that would be for five years. The American Le Mans Series is being dictated by a rulebook from the ACO [organizing club for Le Mans]. We are a lot different with four-hour races and one or two 12-hour ones versus a 24-hour race. It's not completely consistent. I'm of the mind that we need to have one pure prototype class and one for coupes like the Corvettes and Porsches and Aston Martins. I think the excitement of the racing if everybody had the same power and had different-looking chassis and different-looking engine, I think it would take the sport another 100 feet high."