Valentino Rossi, the seven-time MotoGP world champion, is embarking on a new chapter in his motorsport career. Partnering with Team WRT, Rossi will be competing in both the GT World Challenge Europe (GTWCE) and the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) this year. Joining forces with factory driver Maxime Martin, the duo will share a Team WRT BMW M4 GT3. This collaboration between Rossi and Martin has proven successful in the past, and they aim to continue their winning streak in this exciting new endeavor.
Rossi, classified as a silver-rated driver, will be competing in the LMGT3 class alongside his teammate Martin and bronze-rated driver Ahmad Al Harthy in the WEC. This new experience in the WEC will see Rossi take on legendary circuits like Le Mans, Austin, and Sao Paulo. With his trademark determination and skill, Rossi hopes to make his mark in this highly competitive series.
In addition to WEC, Rossi and Martin will also form a formidable team in the Pro class of the GTWCE Endurance Cup. Joining forces with new BMW signing Marciello, they will be vying for victory in renowned races such as the Spa 24 Hours. Their previous success at Brands Hatch and Misano underscores their potential to achieve greatness in this championship.
Rossi’s commitment to his diverse motorsport journey is reflected in his packed racing schedule for 2024. With a minimum of 16 race weekends, Rossi will have ample opportunities to showcase his versatility. Alongside the WEC and GTWCE races, he will participate in the opening round of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, the prestigious Bathurst 12 Hours.
Rossi’s dedication to his 2024 program is palpable, as he eagerly anticipates the start of the season. The Italian racing icon expresses his excitement about racing with Martin and Marciello, labeling them as “fantastic drivers.” With this strong lineup, Rossi believes they have the potential to be a force to be reckoned with in the GTWCE.
It is not only Rossi who is thrilled about their renewed partnership for 2024. Martin expresses his happiness at once again teaming up with Rossi, highlighting their strong camaraderie and shared goals. Their collaboration has yielded impressive results in the past, and they hope to replicate this success in the upcoming season.
Marciello, a new addition to the team, complements the lineup, describing it as an exceptionally strong combination. With his primary focus in the Hypercar class of the WEC, where he will be racing for WRT on one of their BMW M Hybrid V8 LMDhs, Marciello is excited about the opportunity to compete alongside Rossi and Martin in the GTWCE.
Team WRT’s GTWCE campaign will feature another potent lineup. Fan favorites Dries Vanthoor, Sheldon van der Linde, and Charles Weerts will drive a Pro class M4 in the GTWCE enduros. Their collective experience and success make them strong contenders for victory. Vanthoor and Weerts will also be participating in the Sprint Cup, aiming for their fourth title in five seasons.
Additionally, Ahmad Al Harthy’s program includes the GTWCE enduros in the Bronze Cup class. Al Harthy will join forces with factory driver Jens Klingmann and Sam De Haan, forming a formidable lineup. The third full-season car for the short-format GTWCE races is yet to be announced, further adding to the anticipation and excitement of the season.
Valentino Rossi’s foray into the world of car racing has been nothing short of remarkable. With each new challenge he embraces, he continues to showcase his unwavering dedication, versatility, and unparalleled skill. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting journey for Rossi and his talented teammates, as they compete against the best in the world.
As motorsport enthusiasts, we eagerly await the start of the season to witness the unfolding of this new era in Rossi’s career. With his name firmly etched in the annals of motorcycle racing, Rossi’s venture into GT racing is a testament to his unrelenting pursuit of success.
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