TDS Working on Second LMP2 Entry

Photo: Vision Sport Agency

TDS Racing could remain as a two-car operation in the FIA World Endurance Championship, with the French squad working to finalize a deal for its second Oreca 07 Gibson in the 2018/19 ‘Super Season.’

The former European Le Mans Series champions stepped up to the globe-trotting series last year, fielding LMP2 cars under its own banner and for G-Drive Racing.

While Francois Perrodo, Matthieu Vaxviere and ex Audi LMP1 ace Loic Duval have been confirmed in TDS’ entry, the status of the G-Drive effort remains unclear, amid reports of Roman Rusinov looking to shift his focus to ELMS. potentially with another team.

“The goal is clearly to run another LMP2 [car],” team co-owner Xavier Combet told Endurance-Info.

“Running two cars is logical for a team. Everything is done to finalize the program as quickly as possible to prepare the best this new season.”

Combet indicated its possible second entry could feature endurance veteran Emmanuel Collard, who was replaced by Duval in the Perrodo-backed entry for next season.

“We are already delighted to leave with François and Matthieu, but also to welcome Loïc to participate in the Super Season in an Oreca 07,” Combet said.

“We also hope to quickly find Manu behind the wheel of a TDS Racing car after the wonderful 2017 season.”

Only TDS and Racing Team Nederland have so far confirmed LMP2 efforts for the WEC, although news is expected to come from both Signatech-Alpine and Jackie Chan DC Racing in the coming weeks.

Manor, which announced a move up to LMP1, has also laid out plans to remain in the cost-capped category with at least one Oreca.

Laurent Mercier contributed to this report

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