Absolute to Make ELMS Debut With Proton Support

Absolute Racing will make its European Le Mans Series debut this year with a Porsche 911 RSR-19 operated in partnership with Proton Competition.

The Chinese squad has announced plans to contest the full six-round season with Bronze-rated driver Andrew Haryanto and two teammates who are yet to be confirmed.

Absolute made its 24 Hours of Le Mans debut last year in a tie-up with Proton, while Haryanto made a couple of FIA World Endurance Championship appearances with the German team in preparation for the famous race.

“We are really happy to be competing in the ELMS this season,” said Absolute team director Ingo Matter.

“We are not underestimating the challenge ahead of us, but given last year’s performance at the Le Mans 24 Hours race, I am confident that we are up to the task.

“For an Asian team like ours, going to Europe for a full season of racing is a significant milestone. We are pleased that we will be able to do so in the prestigious ELMS organized by our good friends at the ACO.

“Being back competing with the RSR and expanding our partnership with Proton Competition after three races together last year should result in some success.”

Absolute Racing intends to continue its Southeast Asia operations this year alongside its ELMS debut.

One of the largest teams in its home region, Absolute has run cars for customers in a wide range of categories from facilities spread across different countries.

“I’m delighted to see Absolute Racing and Andrew Haryanto enter the European Le Mans Series in 2022,” commented Alexandre Gibot, managing director of Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific.

“The team put in a great performance last year at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, so a full-time entry into ELMS makes perfect sense.

“Andrew is an experienced and talented driver and I’m excited to see what he and Absolute Racing are capable of this season.”

The entry list for the 2022 ELMS season is due to be released by the series this morning.