Jean-Eric Vergne: I have to 'prove myself' again for LMP1 chance

Vergne has added a Manor LMP2 drive with Manor to his Techeetah Formula E programme, and made his WEC debut at Silverstone in April.

The French driver said stepping up to LMP1 was "part of the plan", but concedes he will have to bank more experience in the discipline to earn that opportunity, with Porsche and Toyota only currently fielding two cars each.

"I've proved my worth in F1 and Formula E, but obviously endurance racing is something very different," he told Autosport.

"I've got to prove myself again, and I have no problem to do so.

"I'm being patient, and I'm sure one day the opportunity will come, and I'll be ready to step up."

Vergne's Manor entry has finished sixth and seventh in LMP2 the year's first two rounds, and he will make his Le Mans 24 Hours debut this month.

The 27-year-old says he's enjoying the programme so far.

"The level of the drivers is very good in LMP2," he said.

"It's always exciting to be fighting against good drivers, it doesn't matter what championship it is. It keeps you alert and always performing.

"I feel very comfortable in the LMP2 car. Everything is going better and better, and I'm really happy with this new kind of racing for me.

"They are amazing to drive, with the cornering speed. I've driven the best cars in the world, and this isn't far off.

"You put a few more horsepower, and it will be an LMP1."