Wayne Taylor Racing Prepares for Historic Le Mans Debut
Wayne Taylor Racing (WTR) is set to make its long-anticipated debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend with the blue #101 Cadillac V-Series.R. Team owner Wayne Taylor, a Le Mans class winner in 1998, expressed the significance of this milestone during recent scrutineering in downtown Le Mans. "There are really no words to describe this,” Taylor stated, reflecting the excitement of the team’s first entry in the world’s most prestigious endurance race.
WTR’s participation at Le Mans stems from a strategic reunion with Cadillac after parting ways with Acura/Honda Racing Corporation. Taylor’s commitment to race on the global stage dates back to the inception of the LMDh platform, and he eagerly submitted an entry under the Cadillac banner, which was accepted. This event marks not just an entry but a historic collaboration, as Taylor’s sons, Ricky and Jordan, will compete together for the first time at Le Mans, joined by veteran Filipe Albuquerque.
Cadillac aims to leverage its four-car presence at Le Mans, including entries from Hertz Team JOTA and Cadillac Whelen/Action Express Racing. Taylor emphasized the importance of unity among the teams, stating, “I do believe there’s strength in having four cars. Cadillac puts enormous resources behind this.”
The preparation for Le Mans has been intensive, with all four WTR drivers completing vital laps in simulators to acclimate to the unique demands of the Circuit de la Sarthe. General Manager Travis Hogue noted the logistical challenges of transitioning equipment from the United States to France. “We have a plan—but we must remain flexible,” he remarked, highlighting how swiftly they had to adapt following their March confirmation for the race.
Despite a slow start to the IMSA season, WTR recently achieved a significant second-place finish at the Detroit Grand Prix, marking a pivotal momentum shift ahead of Le Mans. Albuquerque reflected on the team dynamic, stating, “When things are going better, friendship comes along, trust comes along… It just builds momentum.”
The drivers, particularly the Taylors, are motivated to pursue an overall victory, which would make them the first American drivers to do so since Davy Jones in 1996. “We’re going there to represent Cadillac and race for an overall win,” Jordan Taylor affirmed. With the groundwork set and a resilient spirit within the team, WTR looks to navigate the challenges of Le Mans and secure a place among the elite.
As the drivers prepare for the intense race weekend, all eyes will be on WTR to see if their strategy and collaboration will lead to a remarkable performance on one of motorsport’s grandest stages.
