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Isotta Fraschini Withdraws from Remainder of Season

Isotta Fraschini pulls plug on FIA WEC campaign; withdraws from three remaining races…

Photo: MPS Agency

Isotta Fraschini has announced the withdrawal of its No. 11 Tipo 6 LMH Competizione from the remainder of the FIA World Endurance Championship season with immediate effect.

The Italian manufacturer, which made its world championship debut this season, will not be competing in the upcoming Lone Star Le Mans event at the Circuit of The Americas as well as in Fuji and Bahrain.

This is despite the fact that the car is already en route to Austin, where it was originally due to take part in the sixth round of the championship on Sept. 1.

A statement issued by Isotta Fraschini on Wednesday outlined that “there are no longer any conditions to continue the partnership” with operational partner Duqueine Team.

The brand added that it “has decided to redirect its resources toward restructuring its motorsports program and expanding its track and road car initiatives.”

The withdrawal comes just over a month after a management shakeup in which motorsport manager Claudio Berro departed the company and was replaced by CEO Miguel Valldecabres.

In total, Isotta Fraschini competed in five WEC races, making its debut during the Qatar 1812km and finishing upon its 24 Hours of Le Mans debut in June.

“We are immensely proud of our achievements in our debut season,” said Valldecabres.

“Competing in the WEC has been an incredible honor and experience, with the 24 Hours of Le Mans being a particular highlight.

“This very difficult decision has not been made lightly, but it allows us to build on our successes, fostering the growth of our brand and the development of our products in both the racing and Hypercar markets.

“As a new manufacturer with great ambitions, not continuing in the WEC 2024 season is a strategic obligation to conserve our resources and ensure the continuity of our project.”

While Isotta Fraschini expressed the hope for a “possible return in the near future,” the grid for next week’s COTA race drops down to 36 cars as a result of the withdrawal.

 

Davey Euwema is Sportscar365's European Editor. Based in The Netherlands, Euwema covers the FIA World Endurance Championship, European Le Mans Series and Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, among other series.

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