Porsche Faces Challenges in Disappointing Start to 2025 FIA World…

The 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship commenced on a disappointing note for defending champions Porsche, with neither of their cars in the top ten during qualification. The race saw significant challenges, including unscheduled pit stops and technical issues for both entries. Despite the setbacks, the team is focused on improving performance for the upcoming Imola race.

The 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship began unfavorably for defending champions Porsche at the Lusail International Circuit, where they expressed dissatisfaction with their performance. Unlike the previous year, no Porsche 963s secured a position within the top ten during qualification. New driver Julien Andlauer qualified the 5 hybrid prototype in 11th place, just two-hundredths of a second short of Hyperpole, while reigning Drivers’ champion Kévin Estre placed 13th with the sister 6 entry.

The subsequent race proved to be challenging for Porsche. Andlauer experienced immediate difficulties, necessitating an unscheduled pit stop due to a damaged tyre, which resulted in the team falling to the 18th and last position in the Hypercar class. Although an early refuelling during a safety car period temporarily placed the 5 crew in third, additional tyre issues and a necessary repair at the halfway point ultimately restricted their final standing to a lapped tenth at the finish.

Reflecting on the race, Michael Christensen stated, “An exhausting, sometimes really difficult race. It was pretty tough on the track – rarely have I had contact with so many other cars in such a short space of time. I did not want that at all. Our Porsche felt very good at times, but in the end I had to fight with tyre and brake wear as well as the energy level.”

Similarly, the 6 entry, driven by Estre, Laurens Vanthoor, and Matt Campbell, ultimately finished 11th, about 20 seconds behind. Their race was also marred by Vanthoor being hit from behind, which necessitated a rear wing replacement during the first pit stop.

Looking ahead to the next round, the 6 Hours of Imola in Italy, Porsche Penske Motorsport is eager to improve their performance. Urs Kuratle, the LMDh Director, noted, “We knew from the start that we were in for a difficult race. Last year, we finished with three Porsche 963s on the podium in Qatar, but the situation has changed.”

Jonathan Diuguid, the Managing Director, echoed the sentiment of disappointment, stating, “We only scored two points – but I feel like we deserved more. Our two Porsches had a long day.” The team is determined to enhance their performance and address the issues encountered, as they prepare for the upcoming event in Imola.

Porsche’s opening race of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship left them disappointed, having encountered several setbacks at the Lusail International Circuit. Despite a series of challenges, including tyre issues and unfortunate incidents, Porsche intends to improve upon this performance in the next round at Imola. With the determination to enhance their efficacy, the team aims for a more favorable outcome moving forward.

Original Source: www.fiawec.com