Photo: James Moy/Toyota
Stephane Sarrazin’s new motorsports operation will expand into endurance racing later this year, with the Frenchman confirming a LMP3 program that’s set to begin in the Asian Le Mans Series.
The two-time European Le Mans Series champion has outlined plans to enter a Ligier JS P3 Nissan in 2017/2018 Asian season, with the possibility of an Oreca 05 LMP2 car being added to the effort, leading up to a targeted ELMS program next year and eventual debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
It marks a significant expansion for the French team, which was launched in April primarily for Sarrazin’s rallying exploits.
“We have ordered our first Ligier JS P3, which we want to start this season in the Asian Le Mans Series, before going on to the European championship in 2018,” Sarrazin said.
“This will give our drivers the opportunity to benefit from the most comprehensive support possible, ranging from management, to ultra personalized coaching in testing to racing.”
Sarrazin has appointed KCMG Composites Chief Operating Officer Philippe Charissoux as team manager, with the Hong Kong-based squad set to provide technical support for the program.
Drivers for the Asian Le Mans effort have yet to be announced although is not expected to include Sarrazin.
“It was essential that my endurance racing experience not only remains an asset that I’m the only one to enjoy,” Sarrazin added.
“Thanks to my expertise in the discipline and programs I’ve had with many prestigious teams such as ORECA, Aston Martin, Peugeot and Toyota, this new division will be a real pedagogical, technical and sporting springboard.
“Today, this type of industry is mainly developed in single-seater for young talents.
“Our team will now offer a 100 percent oriented alternative for endurance racing to both the gentlemen drivers and the future hopefuls of the discipline.”
Despite the expansion of his own team, Sarrazin remains a contracted driver to Toyota Gazoo Racing.
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