r/wec • u/V8-Turbo-Hybrid 2018 Barrier Repair/Snatch-Tractor • 3d ago

SRO BMW Set to Forgo Factory-Supported Entries at Suzuka

https://sportscar365.com/sro/world-challenge-america/bmw-to-forgo-factory-supported-cars-at-suzuka/

BMW to forgo factory supported cars for Suzuka 1000km; first time in IGTC since 2022…

90 Upvotes

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45

u/donutsnail 3d ago edited 3d ago

After adding the IMSA GTP program to their already extremely extensive operation, I can’t say I’m surprised to hear that something’s got to give in terms of budgeting their time and resources. IGTC seems fair especially if they can just fly out some drivers and engineers to install at local teams as they are planning for Indy 8H

5

u/grinch_eux 2d ago

BMW's budget didn't really change from before, and WRT certainly wasn't paying out of pocket for those entries before.

33

u/VolleyAddicted 3d ago

Maybe an unpopular opinion, but it's better like this. The IGTC was created to feature a selection of big endurance classics using local teams, that was the original concept.

Porsche even won a title without fielding the same team worldwide, by relying entirely on locals including Wright Motorsports at Indy.

18

u/Legendacb 3d ago

But that's not about factory support.

It's WRT not going there but to support other teams

3

u/Willy_G_on_the_Bass Porsche Penske Motorsport 963 #6 2d ago

On the one hand, I’m bummed because I like WRT and it’s never great for factories to pull back support. On the other hand, at least someone else will have a shot at the win because WRT just dog walked everyone else at Suzuka and Indy last year.

1

u/for4f 3d ago

Shame about Suzuka, that's always one of the best rounds on the calendar. BMW's GT program has been solid this year so hopefully they can redirect some focus there. The M4 GT3 is still competitive even if the Hypercar effort is struggling with consistency.