VDS Panis Racing Holds Top Spot in ELMS LMP2 Championship
VDS Panis Racing is leading the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) LMP2 Teams’ Championship as the 2025 season progresses. Team Principal Olivier Panis commended his squad’s consistency, stating, “We have a great team. We are consistently fast and reliable, race after race.”
The team features a strong driver lineup with Alpine works driver Charles Milesi, Toyota Gazoo Racing Driver Challenge prospect Esteban Masson, and Oliver Gray. Panis noted the camaraderie among his drivers, which has positively impacted the team’s performance: “Our three drivers behave like pals or even brothers. They leave ego matters aside, which reflects on the entire team.”
Reflecting on the recent 24 Hours of Le Mans, Panis acknowledged the near-victory, stating, “We had an incredible race. Only four and a half seconds separated us from the winning car after twenty-three and a half hours.” Despite a technical issue that hampered their final push, Panis expressed satisfaction with the podium finish: “I was happy for the team. They deserved that spot on the podium.”
Looking ahead, Panis is determined to secure the ELMS Teams Championship. “It has become such a competitive championship! We are going to keep on fighting for victory,” he asserted. He also mentioned plans to explore participation in the Asian Le Mans Series and IMSA, aided by Xavier Combet from TDS.
Panis expressed long-term ambitions, saying, “Of course, I would be delighted someday to compete with a Hypercar. Proper technical and financial backing would be essential.” He highlighted that several manufacturers are contemplating junior teams, which could present future opportunities for VDS Panis Racing.
As the team prepares for the next races, their focus remains clear: consistency, teamwork, and the determination to compete at the highest levels of endurance racing.
