Van Gisbergen Set for Le Mans Debut in Eurasia Ligier

Photo: Rick Dole/IMSA

Virgin Australia Supercars star Shane van Gisbergen is set for his 24 Hours of Le Mans debut, having been confirmed as part of Eurasia Motorsport’s lineup for the French endurance classic.

The 30-year-old Kiwi, who drove for the Mark Goddard-led team in last month’s Asian Le Mans Series round at The Bend, will be joined by fellow countryman Daniel Gaunt and Japanese racer Nobuya Yamanaka in the No. 35 Ligier JS P217 Gibson entry.

Eurasia, which fielded two Ligier entries in the Asian LMS last season, finished third in the LMP2 championship.

It will mark the team’s fourth Le Mans appearance.

“We secured three runner-up [finishes] in the Asian Le Mans Series over the winter, as well a pole positions, so we know we have the speed to be very competitive,” said Goddard. “Nobu has learned a great deal and it is a real pleasure to help him in achieving his dream, racing at Le Mans.

“Daniel has done a great job throughout the four races he’s been with us and brings continuity to this program.

“Shane is an astonishing driver, the way he came in and set the pace at The Bend with zero testing or prototype experience underlines his raw talent.

“It’s going to be a busy few months now as we prepare, but we can’t wait to get started.”

As was the case at The Bend, the car will sport an  ‘All Black’ racing New Zealand livery.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John