GT / Tourism
BMW Motorsport's new strategy detailed
In accordance with exclusive information from AUTOhebdo.fr dated Wednesday May 22, BMW will withdraw from the World Endurance Championship (WEC) upon arrival of 24 Hours of Le Mans 2019 (Sarthe, June 15-16). The German manufacturer's Motorsport branch has detailed its new battle plan for the years to come.
An exciting journey comes to an end: Four years after our decision to compete with the BMW M8 GTE, we will say good-bye to the @FIAWEC after @ 24hoursoflemans. However, our #MISSION8 continue in the @IMSA series. What else remains? Check out our thread.#BMW #BMWM #BMWMotorsport pic.twitter.com/vYtIT6AOVT
- BMW Motorsport (@BMWMotorsport) 22th May 2019
This program is supposed to “ focus more on existing and potential customers”, with “use of technological synergies within the Development department” from BMW. Among the major announcements, let us note the development ofa new car adapted to GT3 regulations and the creation of a sim racing team. There Formula e, DTM and l'Imsa remain the three major championships of the Bavarian firm.
“Our commitment to Formula e is long-term in nature., specifies Jens Marquardt, Director of BMW Group Motorsport. For us, the electric discipline is not just a car race, our commitment goes beyond that. It is an important platform to demonstrate our expertise in the field of automotive innovation. What is vital is to keep a positive cost/benefit ratio, even with the arrival of new teams. (Mercedes et Porsche end of 2019. Editor’s note)."
The Imsa will continue to welcome the M8 GTEs, which will no longer be the case for the WEC. “Imsa plays a central role for our brand in North America and it is a championship that is developing well, continues Jens Marquardt. The United States is the largest market for BMW M cars, the direct link between the M8 GTE and production there is very adequate. »
What to indicate the uselessness of the GTE Pro program in WEC according to BMW. “The global presence of BMW M Motorsport is ensured by customer competition and the DTM in Europe and Asia, and the Imsa across the Atlantic, without going through a world championship. »
Finally, support for teams wishing to enter a GT3 in top-class races will be extended. “It will still be possible to provide support for teams at the start of events at the Nürburgring (Germany), Macau and Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium). »
Medhi Casaurang
Passionate about the history of motorsport across all disciplines, I learned to read thanks to AUTOhebdo. At least that's what my parents tell everyone when they see my name inside!
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