The European Le Mans Series traditionally kicked off the season with the 4h of Le Castellet (Paul Ricard) France. However just days before the event it stood clear that Henning's main team Virage was unable to go, this left him without a drive. Determined that something would pop up he decided to go to the event anyway since the tickets and hotels was already bought and paid for. The gamble paid of, one of Inter Europol's driver's had just ripped the contract and walked away. This meant Henning was able to join the free practice two with his new teammates Paul Scheuschner and Luca Demarchi.
"It was unreal, like a movie. It was just after lunch time, I was sitting on my beed feeling a bit down knowing I would miss the first race of the season. But at that moment my manager calls me and asks how I was. I replied something like I'm okey, I will go to the gym soon. He then asked - Are you sure you don't want to drive instead? I didn't really understand so I asked him what hi meant. Thats when he said it! - I found you a drive with Inter Europol they have one driver who left. He continued - I send you the contract now.
I was so happy! sorted the administrative stuff, grab my gear and went to the track"
-Henning
The race weekend was challenging for Enqvist, to arrive last minute in a new team with new teammates in a new series requires lots of focus. Henning still managed to be quickest on the car but achieving p17 in qualifying was less then satisfying. However the car had a contact in free practice between Henning's teamate and another lmp3 from Unitedautosports, as a result the complete rear left upright was destroyed. After this was replaced the car suffered brake issues the rest of the weekend which for sure was less from ideal since it compromised the performance.
Enqvist took the start gaining a couple of positions before handing over the car to Paul who got into a good rhythm quickly. Paul was consistent until he unfortunately had a spin which cost some time. Luca was last out in the car and did a really good job he was fast and consistent. In the end the trio finished 12th which under the circumstances is not bad.
"It was a nice experience to be in the ELMS for my first time together with the Inter Europol team. I really like the atmosphere in the paddock and the competetive level on track. I knew going to the ELMS would be a challenge for me. However I think that I did a good job together with the team. I’m happy with my stint even though I was struggling a with trail brake vibrations which for sure compromised the preformance. After this positive experience I really look forward to be back in ELMS at Monza.”
- Henning