After over ten years sporting with Ferrari, 2016 will see Team AKKA-ASP move over to Mercedes Benz.
The Mercedes AMG GT3 will be the team’s new weapon, taking part in a number of international programmes next season, while maintaining some appearances on the national scene.
Three new cars, adjusted driver will therefore feature for Jérôme Policand’s team, which is ready to take on this new challenge with undiminished determination.
It is a significant challenge to work with a new manufacturer. Do many changes have to be made?
“It is true that it is not an easy decision to take, and there are a number of parameters to be considered. We made this choice in perfect harmony with AKKA, which gives meaning to this new collaboration. In terms of working on the car, it is clear that we will have to adapt to this new chassis and engine. But it is also very stimulating for the team, and allows new horizons to open up. We will have three Mercedes cars, but we will also keep one Ferrari for some events. It should not be forgotten that this was the car which allowed the team to build up such a solid reputation… no fewer than seven national and international titles, 14 victories in France and ten in Europe.”
Is your 2016 programme already set?
“The Blancpain Sprint and Endurance Series will be the main focus of our 2016 season, without forgetting the GT Sports Club (launched in 2015 and organised by SRO) reserved for Gentlemen drivers. The season will be built around these events, but will include others. We are also studying the possibility of entering the new championship organised in the ELMS meetings, the GT3 Le Mans Cup, which has the downside of clashing dates with the Blancpain GT Series. Although these are international programmes, we may occasionally take part in rounds of the GT Tour or the VdeV series.”
What about the drivers? Will there be many changes?
“The driver line-ups have not yet been finalised, which is why I would like to keep this back for a future press release. However, we aim to enter a Pro car in the 24 Hours of Spa and in the Blancpain Sprint.”
Is this the start of a new era for Team AKKA-ASP?
“A new era ? It is still rather early to say, but we are definitively entering a period of change. The most important factor remains the motivation which keeps us going, and, quite simply, our love of competition. Next season will be a new challenge, we know that already, but we can’t wait to get going!”
In the next few weeks, Team AKKA-ASP will announce their 2016 colours as well as the driving line-ups.
