The pilot Juan Manuel Correa will play his first season in endurance racesalong with his schedule in the Formula 3 Championship. The Ecuadorian announced that will be part of the Italian team Prema Powerteam for his debut in European Le Mans Series 2022.
“I decided to run endurance because it is a very good experience that will help me even in F3. In addition, this opportunity may end up being the path I take professionally as a driver in the coming years”, Correa commented after his announcement.
For its part, the Italian squad indicated that Correa will be at the helm of “an Oreca 07 racing car in the LMP2 classcomplementing its FIA World Endurance Championship programme”.
The automobile resistance tests seek to demand the maximum from the vehicles, drivers and teams, with long days on the track without any interruption.
As for structure, the LMP2 prototypes have some differences compared to the F3 cars, like the roof, an enclosed cab, and covered tires.
“Technically they are two similar cars in terms of speed, but the LMP2 is heavier, although it compensates with the great power that its engine has and the aerodynamics similar to the F3″, Correa’s team said in a statement.
Super excited to be making my endurance racing debut with @PREMA_Team this year.
This team is like family to me and I can’t wait to take on a new challenge with them.
Big year ahead with two different racing disciplines. Bring it on! ???? pic.twitter.com/hDBtkvY8Fv
– Juan Manuel Correa (@JMCorrea__) February 11, 2022
“Coupling to a long-haul car it has been comfortable, however, I had to change and adapt certain styles that I used to apply in other categories. The driving style is similar and if you are fast in one car you can be fast in any other car”, said the national driver.
In 2016, Correa already tested one of the LMP2 cars, before competing in the GP3 Series and the FIA Formula 2 Championship.
“We cannot express how delighted we are to welcome Juan Manuel back to our team. We were delighted to work with him at the beginning of his career. He is a skilled competitor and a pleasant colleague, and we were deeply inspired by what he accomplished in the last two years. (for his injuries). We trust that you will quickly adapt to the new style of driving and we will have a great base line for the season”, said René Rosinteam manager.
“I am excited to be back with Prema in a completely different championship than what I am used to. Endurance running is a discipline that has always interested me and what better way to debut than with a team that I consider as a family”, said Correa.
The preparation of the Ecuadorian pilot is intense, with a calendar of activities that has this weekend with F3 tests in Le Castellet (France), where between Tuesday and Wednesday he will have LMP2 tests, and will close the week in the ART Grand Prix simulator, his team in Formula 3.
“It’s going to be a busy season. with a double program of F3 and ELMS, but I can’t wait to start”, stated Correa. (D)
Source: Eluniverso
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