In the wake of Audi’s announcement that it will terminate its LMP1 programme at the end of the current season, three key members of the FIA WEC paddock have released statements:
ACO President Pierre Fillon:
“It was with emotion that we all learned this morning about Audi’s decision to withdraw from endurance racing. Although prepared for this, we regret the departure of a major figure in endurance racing for a different adventure. Present at Le Mans since 1999, the German firm has written some of the finest and strongest pages in the history books for the 24 Hours of Le Mans and, more recently, the WEC. More than a competitor, the marque with the four rings has been a real contributor in recent years to the tremendous growth of endurance racing across the world.
“To reduce costs for manufacturers is a major focus for the ACO, in partnership with the FIA. Furthermore, these two organisations have clearly set the course for the coming years: stay at the forefront of innovation while offering the best possible platform for new technologies in preparation for the cars of tomorrow.
“Hybrid technology and electric motors are already part of our daily lives in endurance racing. The changes to the technical regulations towards hydrogen-electric power responds straight away to the energy requirements of this new era.
“We salute the work carried out by the Audi Sport and Team Joest teams who have done a remarkable job, and a particular thought goes to my friend Wolfgang Ullrich. One door closes and, at the same time, another one opens with the already-announced arrival of other manufacturers.
For all fans of endurance racing and motorsport enthusiasts, see you next week in Shanghai for the penultimate round of the FIA WEC and in 2017 for the 24 Hours of Le Mans.”
Gérard Neveu, CEO of the FIA World Endurance Championship:
“We understand this decision, although obviously we regret the departure of a major player in the WEC. Audi has been involved in endurance racing for 15 (actually 18) years, and more particularly in the first five seasons of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
“Today we spare a thought first for everyone at Audi Sport and at Team Joest. Drivers, engineers, mechanics and team members for whom this news is painful. We offer them our admiration and gratitude for their extraordinary sporting performances in the WEC since 2012.
“The WEC is made up of a grid of 32 cars, 20 teams, with four categories and six manufacturers entered. In a week’s time, in Shanghai, Porsche and Toyota will be battling on track for the 2016 LMP1 world title, as Ferrari and Aston Martin will be for the GTE title.
“One manufacturer is leaving, others will soon be arriving. This is the life of a championship.”
Toyota Gazoo Racing:
“Toyota GAZOO Racing has noted with regret the announcement today by Audi regarding its future in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
“Audi has been a strong and sportsmanlike competitor since Toyota’s return to endurance racing in 2012 and we appreciate their role in establishing the WEC as one of the fastest growing, most innovative championships in motorsport.
“Today’s announcement has no affect on Toyota’s position in WEC. We are preparing for 2017 when we will return with the target of winning the Le Mans 24 Hours and the World Championship.”
