Andre Lotterer Returns to Le Mans
Three-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner Andre Lotterer is set to make his 14th appearance at the iconic endurance race, this time behind the wheel of an LMP2 ORECA run by IDEC Sport. The 43-year-old German, who is poised to race the new Genesis LMDh in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026, has been brought in to support the South Korean manufacturer’s ‘trajectory programme’ for the 2024 Le Mans event on June 14-15. This program is designed to prepare drivers, engineers, and mechanics for the Genesis LMDh’s entry into the WEC.
Joining Forces with IDEC Sport
Lotterer will team up with Jamie Chadwick and Mathys Jaubert in the #18 ORECA-Gibson 07, which will compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the full European Le Mans Series (ELMS) as part of the Genesis LMDh project. The opportunity for Lotterer to return to Le Mans this year arose after former Formula 1 driver Logan Sargeant dropped out of the IDEC and Hyundai Motorsport collaboration. Sargeant’s place in the ELMS will be taken by Chevrolet factory driver Daniel Juncadella, who will be unavailable at Le Mans due to his commitment to the TF Sport Corvette Z06 GT3.R in the WEC.
The Logical Choice
Hyundai Motorsport boss Cyril Abiteboul described Lotterer’s inclusion as “the logical choice.” The veteran driver’s vast experience at Le Mans is seen as invaluable for the young team. Abiteboul explained, “This participation allows him to get familiar with the team, engineers, and mechanics this year while bringing his invaluable expertise from Le Mans.” The trajectory programme is a strategic move to ensure the Genesis LMDh is well-prepared for its debut in the WEC next season.
Lotterer’s Perspective
Lotterer himself expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “This opportunity was discussed from the beginning of our collaboration, but the priority was always the drivers from the trajectory programme. Logan’s withdrawal gives me the chance to return to Le Mans and bring my experience to this young team. Racing at Le Mans is always special, and this experience will also help me stay sharp for the rest of the season.” His return to the historic race underscores the importance of his role in the development and success of the Genesis LMDh project.
Juncadella’s Fit
Daniel Juncadella, a former Mercedes factory driver, is described by Abiteboul as “the perfect fit” for the ELMS programme. Juncadella brings a wealth of experience, including a one-off appearance at the 2018 Daytona 24 Hours in an ORECA run by the Jota team under the Jackie Chan DC Racing banner. Abiteboul emphasized, “He complements Mathys and Jamie perfectly, giving us a very balanced team.” Juncadella’s addition to the ELMS line-up is expected to provide a strong foundation for the team’s performance and development.
Preparing for the Future
The trajectory programme is a comprehensive strategy to train and prepare drivers, engineers, and mechanics for the challenges ahead. Genesis Magma Racing will have a base on a technology park built by the parent company of IDEC Sport, adjacent to the Paul Ricard circuit. This setup will facilitate a seamless transition to the WEC next season and ensure that the Genesis GMR 001 Hypercar, co-developed with ORECA, is ready to compete at the highest level. The inclusion of experienced drivers like Lotterer and Juncadella is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
