Jota Racing to Prioritize Factory Cadillac Programme Over Bahrain WEC Test
Jota Racing, known for its successful run with the Porsche 963 LMDh on a customer basis, is making a strategic shift in focus as it prepares to become Cadillac’s new factory team in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) starting in the 2025 season. The team, led by team principal Dieter Gass, has decided to forgo participation in the WEC’s post-season test in Bahrain on November 3 to prioritize its partnership with Cadillac.
The decision to skip the Bahrain test means that the Bahrain 8 Hours will mark the final appearance of the Porsche 963 in Jota’s colors, adorned with the logo of its title sponsor, Hertz. This move allows Jota to dedicate more time and resources to preparing for its new role as Cadillac’s factory team, taking over from Chip Ganassi Racing in the WEC.
In a recent interview with Autosport, Gass revealed that discussions are underway with Cadillac to potentially privately run the Cadillac LMDh car before the end of the year. While a specific timeline has not been finalized, Gass expressed optimism that the team would have the opportunity to test the new car before the year’s end, following the conclusion of the Bahrain season finale.
Gass emphasized that there are logistical considerations to address before conducting a test with Cadillac, including ensuring that the team has all the necessary tools, spare parts, and resources in place. Despite these challenges, Jota is committed to making the transition to running the Cadillac LMDh smoothly and efficiently.
Jota’s success with the Porsche 963 in the Hypercar category has positioned the team as a strong contender in the WEC, culminating in a championship win for privateer Hypercar teams with a round to spare. The official announcement of Jota becoming Cadillac’s new factory team in the WEC was made in August, signaling a new chapter in the team’s storied history.
With plans to field two Cadillac V-Series.R cars in the 2025 season, Jota is gearing up for an exciting new era in endurance racing. Gass reassured that there are no contractual barriers with Porsche as Jota transitions to working with General Motors and Cadillac, citing a smooth collaboration between the two parties.
Subheadings:
### Transition to Cadillac Factory Programme
As Jota Racing prepares to take on the role of Cadillac’s factory team in the WEC, the team is making strategic decisions to prioritize its partnership with the American automotive giant. By skipping the Bahrain WEC test, Jota aims to focus on preparations for the upcoming 2025 season, where it will field two Cadillac V-Series.R cars.
### Logistical Considerations and Preparation
Team principal Dieter Gass highlighted the importance of addressing logistical challenges before conducting tests with the new Cadillac LMDh car. From ensuring that the team has all the necessary tools and spare parts to coordinating resources effectively, Jota is committed to a seamless transition to running the Cadillac in the WEC.
### Building on Past Success with Porsche
Jota Racing’s success with the Porsche 963 LMDh in the Hypercar category has set the stage for its transition to becoming Cadillac’s factory team. With a championship win for privateer Hypercar teams under its belt, Jota is poised to make a strong impact in the WEC with the Cadillac V-Series.R in the upcoming season.
As Jota Racing embarks on this new chapter with Cadillac, the team is poised to make waves in the WEC and continue its legacy of success in endurance racing. With a focus on preparation, collaboration, and excellence, Jota is set to write the next chapter of its racing journey with Cadillac by its side.
