Bachler to Join Heinrich for AO’s GTD Pro Title Defense

Photo: Brandon Badraoui/IMSA

Klaus Bachler will join Laurin Heinrich for a full season campaign in AO Racing’s Porsche 911 GT3 R in the team’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTD Pro class title defense.

Confirmed on Thursday, Heinrich will return to the Gunnar Jeannette-led squad for a second full season campaign alongside Bachler, who joined the team at Virginia International Raceway this year.

Fellow Porsche driver Alessio Picariello will complete the team’s lineup for the Rolex 24 at Daytona, Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring and Motul Petit Le Mans, meanwhile.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Porsche in the GTD Pro category for 2025,” said Jeannette.

“Winning the championship in our first year in such a highly competitive class still feels surreal, and we’re eager to carry that momentum into the new season.

“Laurin showcased his speed and competitiveness in Rexy throughout 2024, and with Klaus and Alessio joining him, we’re confident we have a strong lineup.

“The introduction of torque sensors is a new development for IMSA teams in GTD, but we’re optimistic that Porsche’s experience in 2024 will give us a strong foundation to stay competitive from the outset.”

In addition to the class championship, the Illinois-based operation earned three class victories along with the Michelin ‘All Hands’ award, recognizing the crew with the least time spent in pit lane.

“I enjoyed working with Klaus for one race last season, so I’m pleased to have him back, and with Alessio, we have another quick driver from the Porsche family,” said Heinrich.

“Personally, I’d love to accomplish my goal of winning one of ‘the big ones’ such as Daytona, Sebring, and Petit. Thanks to AO Racing and Porsche for giving us such a strong package to come back and try to defend our title.”

Bachler will take part in his second full season WeatherTech Championship effort after previously being part of Pfaff Motorsports’ GTD Pro program in 2023.

“I’m really excited to be back in IMSA, competing in the GTD Pro class,” he said. “Partnering with AO is something I’m truly looking forward to.

“With Laurin and Alessio, I have two incredibly fast and smart teammates whom I respect and enjoy working with. A big thank you to Porsche Motorsport and AO for this amazing opportunity. I can’t wait for the new season to start.”

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