Porsche Penske Motorsport Faces Challenges in Qatar Season Opener

Porsche Penske Motorsport faced significant challenges during the opening race of the season in Qatar, with setbacks including punctured tyres and mechanical issues affecting both cars. While the number 5 vehicle managed to earn two championship points, the overall performance was below expectations. The team is determined to improve for the next race in Imola.

Porsche Penske Motorsport faced a challenging start to the season during the opening race in Qatar on the 5.419-kilometre Grand Prix circuit. With temperatures at 21 degrees Celsius, drivers encountered tricky conditions as nightfall brought much cooler track temperatures. The two 508 kW (691 PS) Porsche 963 hybrid prototypes struggled with multiple setbacks, including a punctured tyre for Julien Andlauer that required an unexpected pit stop, relegating him to last position.

Despite early refuelling opportunities that briefly raised them to fifth, a second puncture and mechanical difficulties ultimately saw the number 5 car finish in tenth position, securing two championship points. In parallel, Laurens Vanthoor, racing in the sister car, had to replace his rear wing after a collision, resulting in an eleventh-place finish.

Urs Kuratle, Head of Factory Motorsport LMDh, acknowledged the difficulties experienced during the race, noting, “We were not completely faultless today, but the team and the drivers did a good job. Nevertheless, the result is disappointing.” Jonathan Diuguid, Managing Director of Porsche Penske Motorsport, expressed hopes for improvement, stating, “We will improve a few things and work on our performance for the next race in Imola.”

The Porsche customer team Proton Competition ultimately finished 15th, suffering from brake issues. In the LMGT3 class, Porsche’s 911 GT3 R entries did not perform as anticipated, with Manthey’s team finishing in 12th and the Iron Dames securing 13th place. Richard Lietz conveyed optimism for the future, suggesting the need for further enhancements in performance.

Drivers provided mixed feedback post-race. Michael Christensen remarked on the challenges faced during the race, emphasizing, “I crossed the finish line and have two championship points, which counts because they could become important.” Meanwhile, Laurens Vanthoor expressed disappointment at the eleventh-place finish, while Neel Jani noted the potential for improvement despite setbacks. Michelle Gatting celebrated her driving experience but recognized the team’s need to enhance their performance ahead.

In summary, Porsche Penske Motorsport experienced a difficult opening race in Qatar, marked by multiple challenges and setbacks for both of their race cars. Despite this, they managed to secure two championship points through their persistence. The team and drivers are committed to improving their performance for future races, maintaining a positive outlook despite the disappointing results. The customer team Proton Competition and other Porsche entries also encountered difficulties, highlighting the competitive nature of the racing environment.

Original Source: newsroom.porsche.com