Ollie Gray Reflects on Le Mans Heartbreak and ELMS Prospects
In a gripping season marked by highs and lows, Ollie Gray’s second-place finish at the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours starkly contrasts his aspirations. After a last-minute suspension failure robbed VDS Panis Racing of a potential victory, Gray noted the emotional toll, stating, “It was awful. I didn’t appreciate it at all.” His somber demeanor on the podium highlighted the weight of the near-miss.
Team performance has been erratic but promising. Gray, alongside teammates Esteban Masson and Charles Milesi, faced a devastating mechanical failure—a single screw on the front wishbone—that forced the #48 car to cross the finish line in a disappointing second. The victory ultimately went to the #43 Inter Europol Competition team, who, despite a late penalty, capitalized on the misfortune. “We’d accepted second place just before the #43 guys were under investigation,” Gray recalled, illustrating the race’s dramatic twists.
Despite this setback, the trio remains at the forefront of the European Le Mans Series (ELMS), sitting atop the LMP2 standings following a recent victory at Imola. “It feels like a little bit of redemption,” Gray reflected, as they prepare for Round 4 at Spa with just a one-point lead over IDEC Sport.
The VDS Panis Racing #48 crew combines youthful vigor and experience, with Milesi adding Hypercar pedigree and Masson touted as a future star. Gray, now 20, has showcased a significant improvement since his transition from single-seaters to endurance racing. “I feel like I can focus on speed rather than learning the car,” he stated, underscoring the impact of his new team environment.
Looking ahead, Gray emphasized the need for continuity: “We just need to keep focused on ourselves for Spa. The Panis car was strong last year there and we’ve been strong all year.” With plans for a title push, the team’s camaraderie enhances their competitiveness, a crucial factor as they navigate the pressure of the remaining races.
As the ELMS season progresses, Gray aims not only for championship glory but also a trajectory toward Hypercar competition. “We want to bring home the championship. That’s all I’m looking at,” he affirmed, indicating his ambition to capitalize on his current form and secure a brighter future in motorsport.
