Three Gulf LMP1 challengers for Le Mans
Gulf enter a third LMP1 car for this year’s Le Mans 24 Hours.
Like its sisters, the third machine - “008” - will also carry the famous Gulf racing colours and Orange Disc branding as Aston Martin Racing adds further to its armoury in the quest for overall honours at the “Great Race”.
The 2009 Le Mans is hugely significant for both Gulf and Aston Martin Racing, as it marks the 40th anniversary of the second Gulf Le Mans victory and also the 50th anniversary of Aston Martin’s Le Mans win.
Aston Martin Racing have recruited three new drivers for the Le Mans challenge, Jos Verstappen from the Netherlands and British pilots, Stuart Hall and Anthony Davidson. The driver line-up for the 007, 008 and 009 has yet to be finalised.
Jos Verstappen is a former Formula One driver and, at one time, was Michael Schumacher’s team mate. The Dutch ace is no stranger to sports cars and is the current Le Mans Series LMP2 Driver’s Champion. He was also part of the LMP2 winning team at last year’s Le Mans 24 Hours.
Stuart Hall is perhaps less well known, although the young Englishman has a fine track record. Having made the switch from single-seater racing cars two years ago he achieved a notable finish in 2007 at Le Mans, coming home fourth overall. He already has two wins in the fiercely contested British GT Championship to his name in 2009
Completing the trio is popular British driver, Anthony Davidson. After coming up through the ranks in British national championships, Anthony drove in Formula One, always proving rapid despite often having a machine that did not do justice to his ability. Recently Anthony has become known as a Formula One Commentator on BBC radio and TV. He is well known to the team, having raced for them in 2003.
“With the success that the team has already enjoyed in LMS this year, everyone at Gulf has been looking forward to Le Mans with eager anticipation but this latest news makes the event even more mouth watering,” enthuses Gulf Oil International Marketing Brand & Manager, Sam Cork. “Everyone is aware that the Audi and Peugeot diesel cars present a daunting challenge but the prospect of seeing three Aston Martin entries lined up on the grid at Le Mans in Gulf colours is something that will send the pulses of fans of both Gulf and Aston Martin into overdrive. I can’t wait!”
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