Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., expressed his excitement and pride as the Lamborghini SC63 showcased its resilience and potential at the demanding FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Lone Star Le Mans race at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including adapting to the venue’s unique conditions, coping with the competitive FIA WEC environment in scorching temperatures, and serving penalties that compromised the final result, the SC63 demonstrated improved performance and reliability.
Winkelmann emphasized the significance of the event, stating:
“Words can hardly express my excitement, especially knowing that it was not only my first time, but also our first time racing in the FIA WEC at this track, which made it all the more extraordinary.”
The Lamborghini SC63‘s participation in the Lone Star Le Mans aligns with the brand’s strategic vision for the future of high-performance mobility. Winkelmann highlighted that the SC63 is the most advanced racing car ever produced by Lamborghini, marking a step into the highest echelon and the future of motorsports for the Squadra Corse division.
Overcoming Obstacles and Showcasing Potential
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The Lamborghini Iron Lynx team encountered numerous challenges during the FIA WEC Lone Star Le Mans weekend at the Circuit of the Americas.
- Adapting to the partially resurfaced track and high temperatures, which differed from previous testing conditions.
One of the primary hurdles was adapting to the venue’s unique conditions, which had changed since their previous testing sessions due to a partial track resurfacing and the scorching Texas temperatures.
The team had to work diligently to find the ideal setup and tire strategy that would suit the demanding race, focusing on unlocking the SC63’s full potential in these challenging circumstances.
- 2. Focusing on finding the ideal setup and tire strategy for the demanding race
Another obstacle the team faced was improving the car’s long-run pace, particularly on the harder Michelin tire compound. This has been a season-long goal for the Lamborghini Iron Lynx squad as they continue to develop and fine-tune the SC63 throughout its debut season. Despite these challenges, the car showcased its fighting spirit and potential during the race, with Edoardo Mortara delivering an incredible start and moving up to the top 10 in just one lap. The SC63 ran strongly on the cusp of the top 10 for much of the race, battling with competitors and making impressive overtakes.
- Improving the car’s long-run pace, particularly on the harder Michelin tire compound.
However, a drive-through penalty for a Full Course Yellow infringement and a post-race penalty for exceeding track limits ultimately compromised the #63 crew’s final result, finishing 14th. Despite this setback, the Lamborghini SC63 demonstrated improved performance and reliability, reaching the finish in the demanding conditions and providing valuable data for the team to build upon in future races
Despite these challenges, the SC63 showcased its fighting spirit and potential. Edoardo Mortara delivered an incredible start, moving up to the top 10 in just one lap. The car ran strongly on the cusp of the top 10 for the majority of the race, battling with competitors and making impressive overtakes.
However, a drive-through penalty for a Full Course Yellow infringement and a post-race penalty for exceeding track limits ultimately compromised the #63 crew’s final result, finishing 14th.
A Weekend of Excitement and Celebration
The Lone Star Le Mans event was a success, drawing an impressive crowd of 65,089 spectators. Winkelmann expressed his delight, stating:
“There was no shortage of fun and excitement, with two Super Trofeo North America races featuring 43 cars (a season record) and our Lamborghini SC63 finishing the race despite two penalties, proving its reliability in scorching hot conditions.”
As the FIA WEC season enters its final stages, the Lamborghini Iron Lynx team remains focused on maximizing their operation, unlocking the car’s potential, and continuing their learning journey. The upcoming rounds in Fuji, Road Atlanta, and Bahrain present new opportunities for the team to showcase their progress and determination.
Stephan Winkelmann’s unwavering enthusiasm and the Lamborghini SC63’s tenacious performance at the Lone Star Le Mans demonstrate the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing the future of motorsports, even in the face of adversity.
Lamborghini SC63’s At Lone Star Le Mans Image Gallery
