Mercedes-AMG returns to WEC and Le Mans with Iron Lynx in 2025

Mercedes-AMG has officially announced its return to the World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the 2025 season. It will compete in the LMGT3 category, leaving aside the main Hypercar class. The alliance with the Italian team Iron Lynx marks the beginning of this new chapter, where two Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars will participate in the LMGT3 category of the WEC. This return represents Mercedes' first participation in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans since 1999.

A New Beginning with Iron Lynx

Iron Lynx, known for its expertise in endurance racing, will manage the two Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars. The team, which previously competed with Lamborghini, is switching brands and joining the WEC grid as the tenth manufacturer in the LMGT3 class. The collaboration aims to establish a competitive presence in the world championship, leveraging Iron Lynx's experience in developing endurance racing programs.

Homologation and Preparation of the Mercedes-AMG GT3

The homologation process of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the LMGT3 category has required several specific adaptations. These include the use of torque-sensing driveshafts and additional work in the wind tunnel to meet WEC requirements.

The Iron Lynx team has confirmed Matteo Cressoni and Claudio Schiavoni as the first drivers for the Mercedes-AMG GT3. Both bring extensive motorsport experience, with Cressoni recently serving as an official Lamborghini driver.

Mercedes' Strategy in the WEC

Mercedes-AMG's return to the WEC comes after several attempts to enter the LMGT3 category. The expansion of the WEC grid and a lower-than-expected number of entries in the Hypercar class have paved the way for this entry. Additionally, Lamborghini's departure from the Hypercar class appears to be linked to the growing financial and technical resource demands, which allowed Iron Lynx to partner with Mercedes-AMG.

Mercedes-AMG has also decided to bring the development of the new GT3 in-house, moving away from its long-term partner HWA. This decision aims to optimize the car's performance for future seasons and highlights the brand's commitment to endurance racing as part of its global motorsport strategy.