Seasoned driver André Lotterer (43) is all set to make his fourteenth 24 Hours of Le Mans start. He will share the wheel of IDEC Sport’s #18 Oreca 07-Gibson with Mathys Jaubert and Jamie Chadwick. With Lotterer already committed to Genesis Magma Racing's Hypercar programme next year, this LMP2 appearance provides an excellent chance to work with the team in the Le Mans environment before stepping up to the top class. “This opportunity was discussed from the beginning of our collaboration, but the priority was always the drivers from the 'Trajectory' programme,” the German revealed. “Ultimately, Logan [Sargeant]’s withdrawal gives me the chance to return to Le Mans and bring my experience to this young team. The car looks very competitive. I’ve already spoken with Mathys and Jamie, and we will form a strong trio. Thanks to Genesis Magma Racing and IDEC SPORT for this opportunity. Racing at Le Mans is always special, and this experience will also help me stay sharp for the rest of the season."

The addition of Lotterer to the IDEC Sport/Genesis Magma Racing squad is a considered strategy, as Cyril Abiteboul, president of Hyundai Motorsport, explains. “This is a logical choice. André has immense experience and has already won the event three times," Abiteboul says. "He is part of the Genesis Magma Racing family since he will race with us in Hypercar next year. This participation allows him to get familiar with the team, engineers, and mechanics this year while bringing his invaluable expertise from the 24 Hours of Le Mans.”

IDEC SPORT Team Principal Nicolas Minassian is equally pleased to have Lotterer on board. “Racing at Le Mans with André is something special. He’s proven to be fast, no matter which manufacturer he races for. This collaboration will be beneficial for everyone.”

Dani Juncadella makes way

Dani Juncadella was expected to line up at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with IDEC Sport, but will now make way for Lotterer owing to his LMGT3 commitment with TF Sport (#33 Corvette Z06 LMGT3.R). The Spaniard, who won the first round of the FIA WEC – the Qatar 1812km – will nonetheless compete in the 2025 European Le Mans Series with IDEC Sport.  The season opens in Barcelona on 6 April. “It’s an incredible opportunity for me to start out in ELMS with such an experienced team,” Juncadella says. “Although I’m currently in LMGT3, I’ve already raced in LMP2 at the 24 Hours of Daytona.” 

A pre-Le Mans test session

Lotterer will get a chance to familiarise himself with the Oreca 07-Gibson by taking part in a test session with IDEC Sport and Genesis Magma Racing before the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The German stalwart will hope to add further success to his sparkling track record in La Sarthe in a particularly challenging LMP2 class.