Weekend Preview: Key Driver Changes and Team Strategies Ahead of GT Racing at Portimão
The motorsport world prepares for an eventful weekend at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, highlighted by strategic driver changes and new entries across various race categories.
Jensen Joins Steller Motorsport
Kasper Jensen, 2024 Michelin Le Mans Cup GT3 Drivers’ Champion, returns to GT3 competition with Steller Motorsport’s #24 Corvette. He teams up with fellow Danes Dennis Lind and Mikkel Mac, marking his first GT3 appearance in over three years after focusing on national series events.
Nesov’s Comeback with Attempto
Alexey Nesov is set to rejoin Tresor Attempto Racing for the Endurance Cup, replacing Gerhard Tweraser in the #88 Audi, which competes in the Bronze Cup alongside Carrie Schreiner and Daniele Di Amato. Nesov’s last race was the 24 Hours of Spa, making this a crucial comeback.
JMW Motorsport’s Gold Cup Entry
JMW Motorsport has restructured its driver lineup in the #60 Ferrari for the Gold Cup class. The new trio consists of Konsta Lappalainen, Casper Stevenson, and Giacomo Altoè, transitioning from their previous Pro category performance at the Nürburgring.
Walkenhorst’s Silver Cup Update
Walkenhorst Motorsport has announced a refreshed driver line-up in the #35 Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo. Mark Kastelic and Lucas Légeret replace Ethan Ischer and Gaspard Simon, joining Mateo Villagomez for the Silver Cup entry.
Sainteloc’s Line-Up Complete
Sainteloc Racing has filled the last remaining driver spot in the #25 Audi with Ivan Klymenko, who previously raced with the team earlier this season. He will join Ezequiel Perez Companc and Etienne Cheli in the Silver Cup category.
High Class Racing’s Debut
High Class Racing is slated to debut their new #77 Ligier JS2 RS in the GT2 European Series this weekend, showcasing infrastructure from last week’s European Le Mans Series finale.
Multiple Championships Utilized
Competitors are utilizing chassis from various championships, exemplified by TGI Team by GRT’s Lamborghini Temerario GT3, originally from DTM, and several entries adorned in markings from Italian GT and ADAC GT Masters.
Notable Livery Changes
Team WRT’s #30 BMW M4 GT3 Evo celebrates its Silver Cup title sweep with a new gold livery. Meanwhile, Rinaldi Racing will run in blue instead of their usual green this weekend.
Razoon’s Unique Setup
Razoon – More Than Racing will operate their #911 GT3 R effort without a garage, instead utilizing an awning to accommodate their two-car setup, reflecting the tight paddock conditions at Portimão.
i4Race Returns with New Maserati
The Maserati customer team i4Race is making its long-awaited return to the GT2 European Series after a hiatus due to a significant accident. The team has prepared a new chassis in time for this weekend’s events.
As teams finalize their preparations, the competitive landscape promises intense battles across various classifications. Stay tuned for updates as the weekend unfolds.
