2025 24 Hours of Le Mans: Inter Europol Competition Triumphs in LMP2
Le Mans, France — The 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans showcased the relentless competition in the LMP2 class, culminating in a dramatic finish that saw Inter Europol Competition claim victory with their #43 ORECA 07-Gibson. The team, featuring Jakub Smiechowski, Tom Dillman, and Nick Yelloly, edged out VDS Panis Racing, whose #48 car suffered a critical suspension failure in the final stages of the race.
Race Overview
The race was marked by a series of intense battles between the leading teams, primarily Inter Europol and VDS Panis. Yelloly, competing in his first Le Mans, faced adversity after a pit lane speeding penalty. However, a late technical mishap for VDS Panis provided him with a chance to recapture the lead, securing Inter Europol’s second class victory in three years.
"I know a little bit how VDS feels… sometimes the race just chooses you," Smiechowski remarked, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of endurance racing.
Notably Competitive Field
Masson and Perera of VDS Panis displayed remarkable resilience, finishing second after maintaining a strong pace throughout despite their late heartbreak. Masson acknowledged the challenges and unpredictability characteristic of Le Mans, emphasizing, “It’s always a difficult feeling… you don’t always win when you deserve it.”
AO by TF achieved a commendable third place overall, claiming victory in the Pro-Am category with drivers PJ Hyett, Louis Delétraz, and Dane Cameron behind the wheel of "Spike the Dragon." This marked Hyett’s first major victory, linking the win to Father’s Day in the U.S., a sentiment reflecting his personal connection to the event.
Technical Insights
The ORECA 07-Gibson remains a competitive platform in endurance racing, but the grueling 24-hour format tests its limits. The mechanical issues encountered by VDS Panis highlight the challenges faced by teams in maintaining structural integrity over extended racing periods.
Conclusion
The 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans reaffirmed the unpredictability and strategic complexity inherent in endurance racing. As Inter Europol’s team celebrates, VDS Panis will regroup and refocus on overcoming the heartbreak of missed opportunity in future events. The inaugural podium for AO by TF also sets an exciting precedent for Pro-Am entries, showcasing the depth of talent within the LMP2 ranks.
