Phoenix Confirms LMP Program

Longtime GT and touring car squad Phoenix Racing will expand into prototype racing following the announcement the team will compete in the Asian Le Mans Series next year.

Audi’s withdrawal from DTM at the end of this year has left a void in the German squad’s program which they are now looking to fill with a move into the prototype scene.

Team boss Ernst Moser is “planning to set up an LMP program” with the first step being an entry in the LMP2 class in the 2021 Asian Le Mans Series season.

As the Asian Le Mans season is only four races long which are all in close proximity to each other in January, Moser has deemed the series is a good starting point for its foray into prototype racing.

With entries to the 24 Hours of Le Mans also on offer, the Meuspath-based outfit could find themselves on the grid at Circuit de la Sarthe later that year.

An entry in the European Le Mans Series is also in works, with mention of an LMP3 car in the Asian Le Mans Series as well.

“Motorsport is extremely fast-moving. You always have to be ready to develop yourself,” said Moser.

“With our LMP program, we are taking a new step towards being part of professional racing. The Asian Le Mans Series is the ideal entry point.”

Moser explained a move into LMP2 and LMP3 could help the team “gain a foothold” in LMDh, ideally aligned with a manufacturer.

“But now we are concentrating on finalizing our lineup for the beginning of 2021,” he said. “We are currently in talks with partners and drivers in order to ultimately be able to put together a strong package.”

Phoenix is the second Audi-affiliated operation to be setting its sights on prototype racing, with WRT also looking to enter LMP2 prior to a targeted LMDh effort.