Lamborghini Iron Lynx Gears Up for Redemption at FIA WEC’s Lone Star Le Mans in Texas
The Lamborghini Iron Lynx team is set to make a strong comeback at the Lone Star Le Mans, the fifth round of the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), held at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Texas this weekend. Following a challenging race in Brazil, the team aims to bounce back and secure a better performance on the 5.513 km, 20-turn circuit that promises to deliver plenty of excitement and competitive action.
Focus on Performance: Lamborghini Iron Lynx's Strategy for Texas
After a disappointing outing in São Paulo, the Lamborghini Iron Lynx #63 crew, consisting of Mirko Bortolotti, Daniil Kvyat, and Edoardo Mortara, remains unchanged for this crucial race in Texas. The team faced significant challenges in Brazil, particularly with their long-run pace on the harder Michelin Pilot compound tire. This strategy pushed them to switch to the faster but less durable medium compound, positioning them inside the top 10 initially. However, a drop in speed and a puncture later in the race resulted in a 17th-place finish.
This time, the Lamborghini Iron Lynx team arrives in Texas with some prior testing experience at COTA. The team has tested the track multiple times, including a recent Michelin tire test with Kvyat, giving them valuable data to optimize their performance. Despite limited track time during their December session due to rain and low temperatures, the team is determined to capitalize on every opportunity during free practice sessions.
The Battle for Redemption: Iron Dames and #60 Crew
In the LMGT3 class, the Iron Dames team, comprising Sarah Bovy, Rahel Frey, and Michelle Gatting, is also seeking redemption. After leading from pole position in São Paulo, a burst water pump in the pits dashed their hopes of a podium finish. The #60 crew of Franck Perera, Claudio Schiavoni, and Matteo Cressoni, aiming to return to points-paying positions, will also be in action this weekend.
Circuit of the Americas: A Test of Skill and Strategy
COTA is known for its diverse challenges and multiple overtaking opportunities, making it a thrilling venue for the Lone Star Le Mans. The 5.513 km track features 20 turns, including an iconic uphill run toward a tight first-corner hairpin, offering plenty of action. The continuous left-right sequence and the high-speed straights combined with heavy braking zones will test both driver skill and car setup, particularly for navigating LMGT3 traffic. The final sector will demand maximum precision, testing the medium-speed handling of the Lamborghini SC63 on a flat, smooth surface.
Q&A with Mirko Bortolotti: Key Insights and Goals for COTA
How important is it to hit the ground running on a circuit where the SC63 has previously tested?
Mirko Bortolotti, a key driver for Lamborghini Iron Lynx, emphasized the importance of leveraging past test data: “We are looking forward to being back in the WEC. The team has tested here recently during the Michelin test with Daniil, so we have some knowledge and data that we can use. Our main focus is to unlock more potential in the car, which has been our goal throughout the season.”
What are your expectations for the COTA race, and could the track suit the SC63?
Bortolotti added, “COTA presents a similar challenge to other tracks we’ve faced this year. We need to build on the car’s good reliability and maximize our performance to finish in the points. We know the areas where improvement is needed, but that’s a gradual process that takes more than just one race.”
What are the key objectives and challenges for this weekend?
“Our main objectives are to improve car performance and collect valuable data for future seasons,” Bortolotti continued. “It's going to be a tough weekend in terms of pace, but if everything goes smoothly and we focus on our goals, a top 10 finish could be within reach, depending on the circumstances.”
Discover Lamborghini Cars in Dubai
Lamborghini’s dedication to excellence in motorsports is evident in its relentless pursuit of performance improvements and racing success. For those inspired by Lamborghini's racing spirit, explore a range of used Lamborghini cars in Dubai at Auto Trader UAE. From iconic models to modern masterpieces, visit Auto Trader UAE to find your next dream car and experience the thrill of driving a Lamborghini on the roads of Dubai.