Munich. BMW M Motorsport is set to make its debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) with BMW M Team WRT participating in both the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes. The Belgian team is fielding two BMW M Hybrid V8s and two BMW M4 GT3 cars. The initial driver lineup has been confirmed, with Dries Vanthoor (BEL) and Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) driving the two LMDh cars, while Augusto Farfus (BRA) and Valentino Rossi (ITA) will be competing in the two BMW M4 GT3 cars.
The nine-time motorcycle world champion, Valentino Rossi, will be taking on a new challenge in the BMW M4 GT3 with his iconic number 46. Last season, he made his debut on the iconic Le Mans circuit (FRA) during the “Road to Le Mans” races and won one of the two races. The BMW M Team WRT BMW M Hybrid V8 cars will carry the numbers 15 and 20, while the second BMW M4 GT3 will have the number 31.
The additional drivers for BMW M Team WRT in the FIA WEC season 2024 will be announced later. Both Vanthoor and van der Linde will be joined by two more BMW M works drivers each in the two BMW M Hybrid V8 cars. For the LMGT3 category, amateur drivers will be included as per the regulations.
Reactions to the FIA WEC lineup:
Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): With BMW M Team WRT confirmed for the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes, and the initial drivers in place, our return to the FIA WEC takes another important step. BMW M Team WRT is one of the best teams globally in both the prototype and GT3 segments. Vincent Vosse’s team is the logical choice for both the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the BMW M4 GT3. The nominated BMW M works drivers possess the necessary driving skill and experience. Sheldon van der Linde is already familiar with the BMW M Hybrid V8, and Dries Vanthoor made a strong impression during test drives. Additionally, he has previously competed at Le Mans in an LMP2 prototype. Valentino Rossi had a strong debut at Le Mans this season, winning immediately in the BMW M4 GT3. His first season as a BMW M works driver has been very impressive, and I am convinced that he will play an important role and be a crowd favorite in the FIA WEC. Augusto Farfus, with his experience and driving skill, will be a crucial pillar for the LMGT3 programme.
Vincent Vosse (Team Principal BMW M Team WRT): We feel privileged to have the opportunity to field both two BMW M Hybrid V8s and two BMW M4 GT3s for BMW M Motorsport in the FIA WEC. While we have two separate crews for the two projects, it will still be a significant challenge for WRT. The drivers who will be working with us, we already know very well from previous joint racing commitments. Starting with Valentino Rossi in the FIA WEC is something truly special and feels like we’ve already achieved most of what we discussed.
Dries Vanthoor (#15 BMW M Hybrid V8): I am excited to be part of the BMW M Motorsport WEC programme. It is a dream come true for me to compete in the top class of endurance racing, and I aim to achieve good results. We have conducted tests, and by the start of the season, we will have accomplished a lot of work. I am very proud to be part of this significant programme and will be working tirelessly to bring some trophies to Munich.
Sheldon van der Linde (#20 BMW M Hybrid V8): Having the chance to drive at Le Mans with the BMW M Hybrid V8 is fantastic. It will be my first time competing in an official FIA World Championship, which is also very special for me. We have a lot of work ahead, but I am looking forward to the challenge. I am already familiar with the LMDh car from the IMSA series, which is an advantage. Racing with it is incredibly fun, and I am excited about the significant challenge ahead.
Augusto Farfus (#31 BMW M4 GT3): Being selected for the FIA WEC programme is a great honor. I believe the FIA WEC will be the biggest racing platform in the world next year, alongside Formula 1. Personally, I have not had much luck in my past starts at Le Mans. Hopefully, we can change that! I am especially looking forward to my home race in São Paulo.
Valentino Rossi (#46 BMW M4 GT3): Competing in the FIA WEC is the next step for me to participate in a world championship and race globally again. Overall, I believe we will be very well positioned.