Krognes Joins Aston Martin Factory Driver Roster

Aston Martin has added Christian Krognes to its roster of factory drivers ahead of a campaign in GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS Endurance Cup.

The 2018 CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa winner, who is also known for his exploits on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, becomes the newest member of a 14-driver roster and is set to embark on a season in the Pro class with Walkenhorst Motorsport.

The Norwegian will share the No. 34 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Evo with David Pittard and Henrique Chaves, joining in place of Ross Gunn, who will concentrate on IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship program with the Valkyrie GTP car.

Additionally, Krognes will again form part of Aston Martin’s lineup in June’s Nürburgring 24.

“Joining Aston Martin was always a childhood dream for me,” said Krognes.

“Now I’m looking forward to taking on the challenges ahead with my great teammates at Walkenhorst Motorsport behind the wheel of the spectacular Aston Martin Vantage GT3.

“I’ve always admired the brand’s heritage and I’m very proud to represent such an iconic manufacturer.

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank AMR for putting its faith in me as well as all the people who have supported me so far on this journey. I can’t wait for the season to start.”

Walkenhorst’ second car in Endurance Cup, meanwhile, will consist of a Silver Cup crew formed by Romain Leroux, Matteo Villagomez and Oliver Soederstroem.

Villagomez and Chaves will then also team up as part of a Pro entry in Sprint Cup, which kicks off at Brands Hatch in May.

Comtoyou will also once again represent Aston Martin in GTWC Europe, with the team’s 24H Spa-winning lineup having been retained.

Mattia Drudi, Marco Sorensen and Nicki Thiim will pilot the No. 007 Aston Martin, while a Silver Cup entry will feature AMR Driver Academy graduate Jamie Day teaming up with the Belgian pairing of Kobe Pauwels and Matisse Lismont.

A third car, meanwhile, will be piloted by Aston Martin F1 driver ambassador Jessica Hawkins, who steps up to GTWC Europe after competing in the British GT Championship last year.

Hawkins will drive the No. 11 Aston Martin, with her co-drivers to be confirmed at a later date.

“The strength in depth brought to bear by our partners in the GTWC Europe is a testament to the competitive level and driveability of the Vantage GT3 platform,” said Adam Carter, Aston Martin’s Head of Endurance Motorsport.

“The car came close to winning the Pro class title in 2024, and I’m confident that the driver line-ups in place across all the divisions are capable of fighting for championship glory in 2025.

“I would like to extend a warm welcome to Christian, who is an excellent addition to the works roster and we are excited to see what he can achieve with Vantage, and also to congratulate Jessica on her graduation to European GT competition.

“It’s going to be a fascinating GT season, and at Aston Martin we look forward to this with eager anticipation.”