Ralf Jüttner: “The manufacturers are in IMSA”

Team Joest is tackling a new challenge by engaging with Mazda in IMSA. The German structure which won everything in Endurance, notably with Audi, now replaces Speedsource in the operation of the RT24-P made on the basis of the Riley Mk-30.

Although this new challenge proves difficult due to the significant competition, team director Ralf Jüttner believes that IMSA is currently the most interesting competition.

“We asked ourselves the question of whether we wanted to continue as a simple operating team, with GT3, or even WEC, in LMP2, by finding sponsors and paying drivers. But it's not a system that we are used to... Today, the manufacturers are in IMSA. In the WEC, apart from the GTE, they have deserted…”, told AUTOhebdo the director of Team Joest.

Ralf Jüttner confirme que le Championnat du monde d’Endurance est dans une passe difficile suite aux retraits successifs d’Audi et de Porsche.

« La situation est très compliquée et je n’aimerais pas être à la place de l’ACO et de la FIA aujourd’hui. Je pense que pour le LMP1, cela aurait été préférable que Toyota s’en aille également… », added Ralf Jüttner.

Discover our report on Team Joest and the full interview with Ralf Jüttner in issue 2147 of AUTOhebdo, available now in digital version on all platforms and on kiosks.