Record crowd see World Endurance Championship at Circuit of the Americas

The Circuit of the Americas is probably the best kept secret in Texas.  The track is one of the finest in the world, routinely drawing race teams and spectators from across the globe.  This past weekend’s World Endurance Championship was true to that tradition, but with one exception… local fans turned out in record numbers to watch the competition!  According to track officials attendance was up 15% over the previous year.  

Better known locally as Lone Star Le Mans, the event brings teams from across the globe. The contest comes to nine location, starting in Silverstone, UK, stopping in Le Mans, France, and ending in Bahrain. The Circuit of the Americas, located in Austin, Texas, is the only US race.  The race is primarily driven at night.  

The World Endurance Championship is actually four races in one. The high end of those races is Le Mans Prototype 1 (LMP1). This category is primarily comprised of hybrid (gasoline / diesel engines complimented by electric engines) prototypes. All cars must be closed cockpit with roof, windscreen and doors. LMP1 cars are the most powerful in endurance racing. With engines positioned in a variety of different places and a number of Energy Recovery System (ERS) versions on the grid, there’s an incredible amount of unique innovation in LMP1 with high-end technology.  

Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2) is the second tier of prototypes racing, and is intended for independent teams not involved with manufacturers or engine suppliers. Either open or closed cockpits are allowed and there must be a second seat not for someone to sit in, rather as a means to hold electrical and cooling components. LMP2 cars are heavier than LMP1 cars, are not as technologically advanced, and are slower because of less downforce and power.  However, the category is very competitive and often produces great racing, with more equally matched cars.

The Le Mans Grand Touring Endurance car (LM GTE) is a car having an aptitude for sport with 2 doors, opened or closed roof, which can be used legally on the open road. This category includes two groups: (1) Professional drivers (LMGTE-PRO) and (2) Amateurs drivers (LMGTE-AM).