This weekend, three champions will be crowned in the Middle East: hypercar drivers, LMP2 teams and LMP2 drivers. In Bahrain, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s 39-point difference between the two teams is now 15 points. Let’s talk thoroughly!
The drivers of the #51 Ferrari 499P – James Calado, Antonio Giovinazzi and Alessandro Pier Guidi – are still in contention for the Hypercar Drivers Trophy. Although they are 31 points behind the No. 8 Toyota lineup, the Japanese still have a chance if the race levels out. The #50 Ferrari 499P is also a title contender going into the race with 97 points.
Porsche and Cadillac battle for third place
After Toyota and Ferrari, Porsche Penske Motorsports will compete with Cadillac Racing for third place in the championship. With only a five-point difference between the two teams, Porsche fought hard against Toyota in last month’s Fuji 6 Hours, with the No. 6 Porsche 963 finishing on the third step of the podium.
Peugeot Total Energy will be participating in the Bahrain round for the second time with two 9X8s. The French manufacturer, which had shown outstanding reliability at Fuji but fell short in terms of performance levels, used the month-long holiday to make the necessary adjustments.
In LMP2, Team WRT is looking to win the team title and drivers’ title. The Belgian team currently holds a 33-point lead in the Europol competition (second place in the championship). The difference between the Polish team (winner of the Le Mans 24 Hours 100th Anniversary class) and United Autosports is just one point, and they are closing in on second place.
Circuits demanding on tires
36 cars are scheduled to start at the Bahrain International Circuit (5.412km). FIA WEC has visited this Middle Eastern circuit since the championship began in 2012. Bahrain His circuit is made up of long straights, tight corners, and elevation changes, giving drivers numerous overtaking opportunities, and is known for high tire deterioration, with his tires deteriorating at a rate of 48%. is. We covered every lap at full speed.
Click here to watch the Bapco Energies Bahrain 8 Hours entry list.
The start of the race will take place on Saturday, November 4th at 14:00 local time (11:00 GMT).