Preparations for the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps are in full swing.
Just days before the start of the world's largest GT3 race, Paradine Competition has completed its driver lineup for the two BMW M4 GT3 EVO cars it will field. Simultaneously, the field has been reduced to 69 vehicles following the withdrawal of Era Motorsport.
Paradine Competition relies on experience and young talent
The British racing team Paradine Competition will compete in Spa with two BMW M4 GT3 EVO cars. The team returns to the Ardennes with great ambitions after a successful prologue in May.
In the Bronze Cup, car number 991 is starting with a promising driver lineup. In addition to team owner Darren Leung and regular driver James Kellett, experienced endurance specialist David Pittard and young talent Leyton Fourie will strengthen the quartet. Pittard brings a wealth of experience: the former Aston Martin factory driver won the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in 2023 and also has successes in the FIA WEC and a Le Mans podium to his name.
For the 20-year-old South African Fourie, the race in Spa, however, will be a premiere. The BMW Junior has recently drawn attention with strong performances in the ADAC GT Masters and travels to Belgium as the current halfway champion.
The BMW with starting number 992 also receives reinforcements. Ian Aguilera will complete the driver lineup in the Silver Cup. The 19-year-old Mexican comes directly from his Le Mans debut, where he achieved a remarkable fifth place in the LMP2 class. Together with Christian Hahn, Josh Rowledge, and Jop Rappange, he is expected to deliver a strong result.
Team owner Darren Leung looks optimistically towards the season highlight: After a successful prologue and a balanced mix of experience and young talent, he sees good chances of leaving the recent disappointing Spa results behind.
Era Motorsport withdraws Porsche at short notice
Meanwhile, there's less positive news from Era Motorsport. The US-based team has withdrawn its planned entry of a Porsche 911 GT3 R. The car was set to compete in the Bronze Cup and was spotted at the official prologue, but only completed a few laps there.
Drivers Kyle Tilley and Jake Hill had previously been confirmed. A vehicle from Lionspeed GP was to be used. The exact reasons for the withdrawal have not yet been announced.
Large field of participants remains
Despite the withdrawal of Era Motorsport, the field for the 24 Hours of Spa remains impressive. With 69 GT3 cars now, the race continues to be the largest of its kind worldwide and once again promises top-class motorsport on the legendary Ardennes rollercoaster.
The BMW faction, in particular, should be in focus. With strengthened Paradine crews and numerous works and customer teams from Munich, the BMW representatives want to fight for top positions at the 77th edition of the endurance classic.