2025 24 Hours of Le Mans: LMGT3 Preview
The 2025 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans promises a dynamic showdown in the LMGT3 class, featuring 24 cars from nine manufacturers, all competing under a ruleset that celebrates the Pro/Am tradition. This year’s competition includes offspring from the top-tier FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), alongside entries from the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) and GT World Challenge Europe.
A Competitive Field
Current form suggests an exciting contest, with varied performance across brands. Each of the three previous WEC races has seen different winners: Corvette at Qatar, Porsche at Imola, and Ferrari at Spa, setting the stage for a contest where any of the four main contenders could capture the title.
Key Competitors
Aston Martin Vantage AMR LMGT3
- #10 Racing Spirit of Léman: Derek DeBoer (USA), Valentin Hasse Clot (FRA), Eduardo Barrichello (BRA)
- #27 Heart of Racing Team: Ian James (USA), Mattia Drudi (ITA), Zacharie Robichon (CAN)
Aston Martin’s new entries bring significant experience, with DeBoer and Hasse Clot looking to leverage their proficiency, while Ian James aims to guide his team to a stronger finish after a turbulent 2024.
BMW M4 LMGT3
- #31 The Bend Team WRT: Yasser Shahin (AUS), Timur Boguslavskiy, Augusto Farfus (BRA)
- #46 Team WRT: Ahmad Al Harthy (OMN), Valentino Rossi (ITA), Kelvin van der Linde (RSA)
BMW seeks to improve on its track record at Le Mans with standout performance in LMGT3, having struggled to maximize podium opportunities amidst strong competition.
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 LMGT3.R
- #33 TF Sport: Ben Keating (USA), Jonny Edgar (GBR), Daniel Juncadella (ESP)
- #81 TF Sport: Tom van Rompuy (BEL), Rui Andrade (AGO), Charlie Eastwood (IRL)
The Corvette contingent, bolstered by a recent WEC victory in Qatar, showcases a talented driver line-up aiming for privateer success.
Ferrari 296 LMGT3
- #21 Vista AF Corse: François Heriau (FRA), Simon Mann (USA), Alessio Rovera (ITA)
- #54 Vista AF Corse: Thomas Flohr (CHE), Francesco Castellacci (ITA), Davide Rigon (ITA)
Ferrari leads the LMGT3 class with five entries, capitalizing on a championship-winning momentum, with the #21 car already clinching a victory this season.
Ford Mustang LMGT3
- #77 Proton Competition: Bernardo Sousa (POR), Ben Tuck (GBR), Benjamin Barker (GBR)
- #88 Proton Competition: Stefano Gattuso (ITA), Giammarco Levorato (ITA), Dennis Olsen (NOR)
After a mixed debut in 2023, the Mustang looks to build on last year’s podium finishes, having resolved previous reliability issues.
Lexus RC F LMGT3
- #78 Akkodis ASP Team: Arnold Robin (FRA), Jack Hawksworth (GBR), Finn Gehrsitz (GER)
- #87 Akkodis ASP Team: Petru Umbrarescu (ROU), José María López (ARG), Clemens Schmid (AUT)
Lexus makes a second attempt at Le Mans, hoping for improved performance from the older RC F GT3 with a rejuvenated driver lineup.
Porsche 911 LMGT3 R
- #85 Iron Dames: Celia Martin (FRA), Rahel Frey (SUI), Sarah Bovy (BEL)
- #90 Manthey: Antares Au (HKG), Loek Hartog (NED), Klaus Bachler (AUT)
Porsche capitalizes on recent successes, with Manthey’s strong track record and the Iron Dames seeking a historic all-female team victory.
Conclusion
The 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans is poised for intense battles on the Circuit de la Sarthe, as teams and drivers maneuver through technical regulations and fierce competition. With diverse manufacturer representation and a rich narrative ahead, the PLGT3 class offers every indication of being a highlight of the motorsport season.
