Aston Martin celebrates GTE Am win at FIA WEC season finale

21 November, Bahrain International Circuit: Aston Martin have won the GTE Am class and taken third in GTE Pro, as the 2015 FIA World Endurance Championship reached its climax under Bahraini floodlights.

The #98 V8 Vantage GTE Am, piloted by Paul Dalla Lana (CA), Pedro Lamy (PT) and Mathias Lauda (A), started the race from pole. Thanks to a faultless and consistent race, Lauda brought the car to the chequered flag in first, securing the team’s 3rd place finish in the driver’s championship and a 23rd win overall in FIA WEC for Aston Martin Racing; more than any other manufacturer.

Dalla Lana said, “It really is a testament to the hard work of the team and my co-drivers. We’ve been fighting very hard for this. To get back to the top step at the end of the year is a great feeling and it’s also a nice way to get ready for next year. I hope that we won’t just be competing for the race win in 2016, but for the overall GTE Am championship”.

After the race, Lamy also dedicated the crew of #98’s victory to his late cousin Pedro, who passed away last week.

With the Balance of Performance returned to levels prior to Le Mans, the GTE Pro cars were once again able to battle competitively in their class throughout the championship finale.

The #97 V8 Vantage GTE of Darren Turner (GB) and Jonny Adam (GB) closed the season with third in the GTE Pro class, after single stinting throughout the six hours. The pair were closely followed by the #95 Young Driver AMR entry in fourth.

Adam said after his performance, “The car felt really good from the first lap of the race. We made a fantastic start claiming third, and after keeping it consistent we were able to keep that result. The team were fantastic and never missed a beat which really helped. After having a tough year, it was great to take this podium and I hope it will propel us into next season”.

John Gaw, Team Principal, said, “Today we achieved the maximum that we could and stepping on to the podium in the Pro class and taking the Am win was incredibly satisfying”.

Reflecting on the year, Gaw added, “The season was disappointing overall and has been really tough for Aston Martin Racing. The car was competitive in the first three races and here too, but there were four races where we couldn’t compete for the championship. However, I’m pleased with the result today and look forward to challenging for the title in 2016”.

Aston Martin Racing will confirm its plans for the 2016 season early next year.