WEC Grid Could Expand To 40 Cars By 2024
The World Endurance Championship (WEC) is revving up for a major expansion that could see its grid accommodate up to 40 cars by the year 2024. This ambitious move comes as a response to the surging interest in the hypercar class and the introduction of the LMGT3 category, set to replace GTE Am starting next season. Jointly administered by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the WEC is on the cusp of a transformative period in endurance racing.
Hypercar Class on the Rise
One of the primary catalysts for this grid expansion is the burgeoning popularity of the hypercar class. The WEC is set to welcome an impressive roster of manufacturers, including illustrious names like BMW, Alpine, Lamborghini, and Isotta Fraschini. Notably, there are discussions about potential entries from Cadillac and Porsche via customer teams. With such a robust lineup, the hypercar class is poised to feature over 20 cars, promising intense competition and thrilling races.
LMGT3: A New Era Dawns
Another significant development is the emergence of the LMGT3 category, which is slated to replace the outgoing GTE Am. This category aims to accommodate multiple manufacturers, with the goal of securing at least 16 grid slots for eight manufacturers, each fielding two cars. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the WEC, adding depth and diversity to the championship and elevating the overall quality of competition.
Navigating Logistical Challenges
The road to expanding the grid is not without its challenges. ACO president Pierre Fillon acknowledged that limitations exist, particularly in terms of available garages at certain tracks. To address these logistical constraints, discussions are underway to explore creative solutions. One intriguing possibility being considered is having LMGT3 teams share a single pit, although the specifics are still under deliberation. The emphasis is on fostering growth while preserving the integrity of the racing experience.
Manufacturer Priority in LMGT3
To ensure a competitive LMGT3 category, priority will be given to manufacturers already involved in the hypercar class. This means that renowned brands like Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, Lamborghini, Lexus, and Chevrolet (sister brands of Toyota and Cadillac) are well-positioned to secure slots in LMGT3. Aston Martin, a longstanding participant in the WEC, is also expected to make its presence felt. Ford is gearing up to join the fray with its new Mustang GT3, further enriching the competition.
A Complex Entry Landscape
The expansion of the grid is further complicated by the concurrent growth of the hypercar class, with Aston Martin and a second Lamborghini set to join in 2025. Additionally, the absence of the LMP2 class in the WEC next year due to the Hypercar expansion has implications for the broader endurance racing ecosystem, spanning the European and Asian Le Mans Series and the IMSA SportsCar Championship.
As the WEC charts a course toward potentially expanding the grid to accommodate up to 40 cars by 2024, motorsport enthusiasts can anticipate an era of endurance racing like never before. While logistical hurdles remain, the commitment to nurturing competitiveness and diversity in the championship is evident. The WEC’s journey into the future promises riveting races and a stage where the world’s top manufacturers showcase their finest machinery. The roar of engines and the thrill of competition are set to define the WEC’s exciting path ahead.
