Bortolotti, Vanthoor in WRT Speedstar Audi for Rolex 24

Photo: Jake Galstad/IMSA

WRT will return to the Rolex 24 at Daytona in partnership with Speedstar for a second year, with Mirko Bortolotti and Dries Vanthoor as part of its driver crew.

The No. 88 WRT Speedstar Audi Sport-entered R8 LMS GT3 Evo will be shared by newly-signed Audi factory driver Bortolotti, Vanthoor, Rolf Ineichen and Daniel Morad.

Ineichen and Bortolotti claimed the GT Daytona class victory at Daytona this year with Grasser Racing Team, while WRT Speedstar finished third in class.

Bortolotti and Ineichen will race together two weeks earlier in a WRT Audi at the Hankook 24 Hours of Dubai, meanwhile.

The Daytona car’s final livery will be determined by a poll held on Audi Canada’s social media channels with votes closing on Dec. 23.

“We are delighted to be again at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, certainly one of the most prestigious endurance races in motor racing, and to do it again in partnership with Audi Canada and Speedstar,” said WRT team principal Vincent Vosse.

“Last year, for our first visit to Daytona, we lived a terrific experience and enjoyed very much the unique atmosphere of this race.

“We achieved an excellent result, taking a podium finish. This year, building on what we learnt last year and with a very strong driver lineup, we certainly aim at doing better.”

Audi Canada’s director of business development Steven Smith added: “Audi Sport Canada is looking forward to January to our return to the 24 Hours of Daytona with the expertise of our motorsports partners WRT and Speedstar.

“We are excited for the pursuit of the podium’s top step with the No. 88 Audi R8 LMS GT3.

“With its special livery, the race car will be immediately recognized and supported by our Canadian Audi Sport fans and RS vehicle enthusiasts once the green flag flies.”

Jake Kilshaw

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