Audi Gets Performance Break for Spa 24

Audi’s chances in this weekend’s Spa 24 got a considerable boost, as the German constructor received a substantial Balance of Performance break.

The Audi R8 LMS ultra sees its air restrictor size increased by no less than 3mm, resulting in better engine performance and a higher top speed, something the Audi teams were struggling with at the last round in Le Castellet.

In addition, the minimum weight is reduced by 10kg, though the ride height is increased by 5mm.

The competition meanwhile mainly gains weight, with the BMW Z4 GT3 taking on an extra 15kg and the Ferrari 458 Italia, Lamborghini Gallardo FL2, Porsche 911 GT3-R and Bentley Continental GT3 all gaining 10kg, with the latter one also getting a reduction in turbo boost pressure.

Both the McLaren MP4-12C GT3 and Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 got an extra 5kg and a different turbo pressures.

The Mercedes SLS AMG GT3 and Aston Martin Vantage V12 GT3 retain a status quo.

A new variable BoP system was introduced for this season, with all the venues on the calendar divided into three categories according to their contrasting characteristics (high speed, high downforce and high traction), a move that was generally received in a positive way.

(Laurent Mercier contributed to this article)