Paul di Resta set to make Le Mans debut with United Autosports
- Published on 30 Mar 2018 14:23
-
- By: Paul Athes
Former Formula 1 driver Paul di Resta will make his Le Mans 24 Hours debut in 2018 alongside United Autosports. The Scotsman will race in the prestigious event in the LMP2 class alongside European Le Mans series regulars Phil Hanson and Filipe Albuquerque in a Gibson-powered Ligier JS P217.
Di Resta has made his sportscar debut earlier this year when he competing with United Autosports in the Daytona 24 Hours, where he finished fourth, and the Sebring 12 Hours. Speaking of his Le Mans deal, di Resta told Autosport: "It's exciting news to be continuing the partnership with everyone at United and undertaking the Le Mans 24 Hours," said di Resta, who will also contest the next North American Endurance Cup round of the IMSA SportsCar Championship at Watkins Glen.
"It's a race I've always looked at closely and now I'm getting the chance at the right time to have a go. It will be good to race alongside Phil again after the Sebring 12 Hours, which was a success and I'm excited to see how partnering Filipe goes." di Resta added.
Zak Brown, United Autosports and McLaren F1 CEO had his say: "I'm thrilled to have Paul join our Le Mans 24 Hours team. He has done a fantastic job racing in America for United Autosports and I know he will continue that onto Le Mans. He knows the car now so all he's got to learn is the circuit, which I'm confident he will do quickly."
Paul di Resta's announcement comes just a couple of days after Juan Pablo Montoya was announced as a driver for the American team at Le Mans. The Colombian driver will drive the second United Ligier alongside Will Owen and Hugo de Sadeleer.
Paul Athes
0
Replies (5)
Login to replyf1dave
Posts: 782
I wish him the best of luck.
blade
Posts: 341
PDR is a quality chap, can't think why he's not got an F1 ride - probably the sponsorship, or lack if it, thing?
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
I think thats it. He was never one of the better drivers, but surely he is better than anything Williams have in their car at the moment?
Norbert
Posts: 108
I'm sure he will do well since F1 guys seem to do well in all other racing they do. On the paddock videos he comes off as really thoughtful and sincere and he has a great voice so there is always, I would think, the possible job as a broadcaster if he feels like it. And at least now he can stand up straight and start eating well again.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Wasnt he with Sky every now and then up until now?