Porsche Dominates 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans in GT3 Class
The 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans saw a decisive victory for Porsche, continuing its dominance in the Le Mans GT3 class. The #92 Manthey 1st Phorm Porsche 911 GT3 R, driven by Ryan Hardwick, Riccardo Pera, and Richard Lietz, secured first place, finishing 33.259 seconds ahead of the #21 AF Corse Ferrari 296 GT3 piloted by Francois Heriau, Simon Mann, and Alessio Rovera.
The race began tightly contested, with multiple lead changes among several contenders, notably the #81 TF Sport Corvette Z06 GT3.R and the #27 Heart of Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3. Yet, Porsche and Ferrari emerged as the primary rivals throughout, echoing the ongoing battle in the Hypercar class.
Hardwick expressed his elation post-race, stating, “This is definitely one of the best experiences of my entire life. Only the best teams win at Le Mans. I am very proud to be a part of it.” This victory marks Hardwick’s significant achievement as he joins a select group of competitors who have excelled in both jet ski and motorsport championships.
Lietz, who added this win to his total of five Le Mans victories, acknowledged the team’s fortune with racing conditions, citing fewer safety car interruptions. “We had a fast car… and the lap times from Ryan were amazing,” he noted, emphasizing the seamless collaboration within the team.
Pera, at 25 years old, emerged as the youngest member of the triumphant trio, having previously secured second and third places in past races but now relishing the top step at Le Mans. “I still have to realize it… I’m speechless right now,” he remarked.
After the race, Manthey Racing leads the WEC LMGT3 driver standings, bolstered by previous success at Imola. Porsche Project Manager Sebastian Golz praised the collective efforts behind the win, highlighting the synergy and confidence that led to Manthey’s consecutive Le Mans victories.
This year’s performance underscores Porsche’s continued excellence in endurance racing, solidifying their status as a leader in the GT3 category.
