Algarve Pro Racing Prepares for the New Season with Distinction
Algarve Pro Racing (APR) has unveiled its updated race suits for the upcoming season, prominently featuring six stars beneath the Asian Le Mans Series (AsLMS) logo. Each star represents one of APR’s titles, with the team aiming for a record-extending seventh championship this year.
Tyre Warmer Rule Reinstated
In a notable shift, tyre warmers have been permitted for the first time since the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans. This decision was influenced by potential cold weather conditions, although initial track temperatures this weekend have remained above 10°C. The additional equipment has contributed to a busier paddock setup.
Michael Tosi’s GT3 Debut
American driver Michael Tosi is making his GT3 debut in the #64 Haupt Racing Team Ford Mustang GT3 Evo, partnering with DTM teammates Arjun Maini and Finn Wiebelhaus. Tosi expressed enthusiasm about learning from experienced teammates. “It’s definitely going to be a steep learning curve with prototype traffic and managing tyre degradation,” he stated, emphasizing the challenges of a four-hour race format that demands solid performance from Bronze drivers.
Tosi’s transition to GT3 follows his participation earlier this season in both Mustang Challenge and GT4, where he achieved multiple podiums.
Reprimands Post-Qualifying
Following qualifying, several drivers faced reprimands for breaches of equipment regulations. Gray Newell, Peter Dempsey, and Antti Rammo were penalized for wearing watches; Newell incurred an additional €100 fine due to a non-compliant balaclava.
Historical Pole Position Update
In an unprecedented development, no car claimed pole position for both races in this double-header weekend, marking a first in AsLMS history. Despite strong efforts, the three Race 1 pole sitters could only qualify second in their respective classes for Race 2—a significant statistical anomaly in a format that has seen pole sweeps across previous events since 2021.
As the season progresses, APR and its competitors prepare for robust battles on track, while teams and drivers adapt to evolving regulations and challenges.
