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Intercontinental GT Challenge

Strakka Announces Switch to Mercedes-AMG; IGTC Debut

Strakka Racing announces switch to Mercedes-AMG GT3 machinery for 2018 and IGTC debut…

Photo: Strakka Racing

Strakka Racing has confirmed that it will make the switch from McLaren to Mercedes-AMG machinery next season following a challenging first year in GT3 competition, while also making its Intercontinental GT Challenge debut.

The British squad is expected to run three Mercedes-AMG GT3s in the Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup as well as making its first appearance in the Intercontinental GT Challenge as a Mercedes-AMG Performance Team.

Strakka’s IGTC debut at the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour in February will be its first non-European race since its final FIA World Endurance Championship season in 2016.

“It’s great for Strakka to be back on the world stage and competing at venues such as Bathurst and Laguna Seca,” said team founder Nick Leventis.

“Together with a return to the Endurance Cup, we’ve a got an exciting calendar next season and a partner in Mercedes-AMG that will enable us to fight for podiums and wins.”

The move comes after a difficult season running four McLaren 650S GT3s in the Blancpain GT Series in which it finished 12th in the overall teams standings.

“Regrettably, we suffered a range of issues that prevented us from being competitive in 2017 and despite a desire for stability, a change was necessary.

“After a thorough review, we feel the opportunity to become a Performance Team for Mercedes-AMG is the perfect platform for the future of Strakka.”

The team will take delivery of its first chassis later this month with testing set to commence before the end of the year. 

It is yet to announce any drivers but racing director Jay Davenport has confirmed that the lineup will consist of existing drivers and factory Mercedes-AMG pilots. 

“From initial discussions, there is real interest in the programme, especially with the Intercontinental GT Challenge,” he said.

“Our tie up with Mercedes-AMG is something which we have kept extremely close to our chest. To be able to announce this today means we now have the full package in place.”

Jake Kilshaw is a UK-based journalist. He is a graduate of Politics and International Relations.

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