THE inaugural season for BMW M Motorsport in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) is approaching, and the official entry list has now confirmed the participation of BMW M Team WRT in both the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes.
This Belgian team is set to compete with two BMW M Hybrid V8s and two BMW M4 GT3 cars. The initial driver lineup is also finalized, featuring Dries Vanthoor (BEL) and Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) behind the wheel of the two LMDh cars, while Augusto Farfus (BRA) and Valentino Rossi (ITA) will handle the two BMW M4 GT3 cars.
Nine-time motorcycle world champion Valentino Rossi, embraces a new challenge with the BMW M4 GT3, proudly bearing his iconic number 46. Having made a successful debut on the renowned Le Mans circuit during the “Road to Le Mans” races last season, Rossi brings his winning spirit to the FIA WEC. The BMW M Team WRT BMW M Hybrid V8 cars will carry the numbers 15 and 20, and the second BMW M4 GT3 will don the number 31.
“I am very excited to compete in the FIA WEC. It is the next step for me to participate in a world championship, not only in Europe but to race globally again. I am already familiar with the car after this season, but the format with three drivers from three different performance categories will be new for me. Overall, I believe we will be very well positioned,” Rossi shared.
Additional drivers for BMW M Team WRT in the FIA WEC 2024 season will be announced later. In the LMGT3 category, amateur drivers are mandated by regulations.
Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport, expresses the significance of this step, stating, “With the confirmation of our team for the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes, as well as the initial drivers, our comeback in the FIA WEC takes another important step.” He highlights BMW M Team WRT’s prowess in both prototype and GT3 segments, making them the logical choice for this venture. The nominated BMW M works drivers bring essential skills and experience to the lineup.
Vincent Vosse, Team Principal of BMW M Team WRT, appreciates the privilege of fielding two BMW M Hybrid V8s and two BMW M4 GT3s, acknowledging the challenge it poses for WRT. He expresses excitement about working with familiar drivers and remarks on the special significance of having Valentino Rossi in the FIA WEC.
Drivers Dries Vanthoor and Sheldon van der Linde share their enthusiasm for the upcoming season. Vanthoor expresses his joy at being part of the BMW M Motorsport WEC program, aiming for good results and appreciating the significant milestone in his career. Van der Linde expresses his excitement about driving at Le Mans with the BMW M Hybrid V8 and participating in an official FIA World Championship.
Augusto Farfus, set to drive the BMW M4 GT3, sees his selection for the FIA WEC program as a great honor. He emphasizes the global significance of the series and looks forward to competing at Le Mans and his home race in Sí£o Paulo.
