Albuquerque Promoted to Audi LMP1 Program

Photo: Audi

Audi announced Thursday that Filipe Albuquerque will be joining the factory squad’s LMP1 program for 2014.

The 28-year-old Portuguese driver, who won last year’s Rolex 24 at Daytona in an Audi R8, moves from the German manufacturer’s DTM program to a new focus in endurance racing.

His first race with the Audi R18 e-tron quattro will come at the FIA WEC Six Hours of Spa, followed by the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

“I’m getting to know many exciting technologies that are new to me,” said Albuquerque, who has already completed tests in the diesel-powered hybrid prototype. “It’s good that I’ll be able to draw on the know-how of experienced team-mates. That’ll accelerate my familiarization.”

While no official word has been given, it’s expected that Albuquerque will be at the wheel of the No. 3 Audi, likely replacing Lucas di Grassi, who has been rumored to take Allan McNish’s full-season seat in the No. 1 car with Tom Kristensen and Loic Duval.

Twenty-one-year old Swiss Nico Mueller, meanwhile, will take Albuquerque’s seat in DTM.

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