Abstract: A method controls an internal combustion engine in a drivetrain of a motor vehicle. The drivetrain has a variable-speed transmission and a friction clutch which is to be actuated by the driver. By use of the friction clutch a force-fitting action between the internal combustion engine and the variable-speed transmission is controlled, with it being possible for the clutch torque of the internal combustion engine to be reduced in order to protect the clutch from thermal overloading. A temperature of the clutch is determined, a limit value which is dependent on the determined temperature is determined and a rotational speed difference across the clutch is determined. The clutch torque is reduced if the rotational speed difference approaches or reaches or exceeds the temperature-dependent predetermined limit value. A control unit is set up to carry out a method of this type or to control its process.