Proton Competition plans to increase its participation in the World Endurance Championship and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship for 2025. The strategy involves adding a second Porsche 963 LMDh in both series to strengthen its position in the Hypercar and GTP categories.
Double Participation Strategy
Christian Ried, leader of Proton Competition, explained that operating two vehicles instead of one allows for more data collection and experience, crucial for competing at high levels like Le Mans. However, it is necessary to secure support from customers and sponsors before proceeding with these plans. Currently, the team is in a waiting phase for some key movements within the WEC, including the acquisition of JOTA's Porsche 963, which could handle the Cadillac V-Series.R in the Hypercar class.
Negotiations with Porsche
Urs Kuratle, head of the 963 program at Porsche Motorsport, revealed that they are in negotiations with several teams interested in racing with the Porsche 963 in both the WEC and IMSA. The possible departure of the JOTA team from Porsche's customer program to take on the Cadillac project would open space for new private teams looking to run the 963.
Challenges on the 2025 Grid
The WEC will see an increase in the Hypercar grid in 2025, from 19 to 22 cars. The arrival of Aston Martin with the Valkyrie AMR-LMH and the increases from Cadillac and Lamborghini could limit the space for private teams like Proton Competition. On the other hand, IMSA has shown willingness to accept more cars in the GTP division, according to recent statements by series head John Doonan, who expressed that they would welcome more participants in this category.
Optimism and Preparation
Ried is optimistic about the opportunities and is ready to explore options with other teams, including JOTA, to secure additional chassis. With its experience in both prototype and GT3 categories, Proton Competition feels prepared to face this challenge and expand its presence in the top endurance series.
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