Morand in Partnership Talks with Rebellion for 2016

Photo: Team SARD-Morand/Vision Sport Agency

The two Swiss-backed teams in the FIA World Endurance Championship could soon be joining forces, as Morand Racing has revealed that it’s in talks with Rebellion Racing for a possible partnership for 2016.

Morand, which fields a Morgan-Judd in LMP2, has recently struggled financially in the move to the FIA WEC, following the departure of two of its partners that’s forced a reduction to a single-car program.

Team boss Benoit Morand, who retaken leadership of his team following the 24 Hours of Le Mans, has confirmed the possible cooperation with the Anglo-Swiss squad, which currently runs a pair of LMP1 entries.

“Yes, even if for the moment nothing is finalized,” Morand told Endurance-Info. “Discussions are underway to see what we can do together.

“[Rebellion Racing team owner] Alexandre Pesci wants to set up a structure that would include LMP1, LMP2 and LMP3.

“There’s also interest in going to the U.S. The category is interesting because you can fight for the overall win.”

Morand said they could continue with the Morgan-Judd in 2016 or switch to the new Oreca 05, a car which is based off the ORECA-built Rebellion R-One.

There’s also interest in establishing a LMP3 program, and with ORECA not eligible to build a chassis, Morand said the logical choice would be the new Ligier JS P3.

“I was a bit skeptical at the presentation of the class last year but I’ve changed my mind,” Morand said.

“I think this category has a bright future. With the budget, we could run in several championships.

“LMP3 is a true gateway to LMP2 and LMP1. I can see LMP3 as a springboard for young drivers to go to the next level.”

As for the remainder of this year, Morand is searching for a third driver to join Pierre Ragues and Oliver Webb, after medical issues have forced Zoel Amberg out of the cockpit.

“Zoel is out of it for now in GP2 and FIA WEC because of medical reasons,” Morand said. “So we need to find an alternative solution because financially we can’t run only two drivers.”

The team tested FIA F3 pilot Matt Rao this week at the Nürburgring, with the hope of signing the 21-year-old Englishman for the remainder of the year.

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