In an unexpected turn of events, Porsche has announced significant changes to its factory LMDh line-up for the 2024 season. The most notable change is the swapping of drivers between the Porsche Penske Motorsport team’s IMSA and World Endurance Championship (WEC) entries. This decision sees Dane Cameron moving to the IMSA squad, while Matt Campbell takes his place in the WEC team. But what led to this surprising shakeup?
Cameron, a highly accomplished driver, will now share driving duties in the #7 Porsche 963 with Felipe Nasr in the IMSA series. This move is deemed a “logical change” by Porsche, as it allows them to capitalize on the progress they made in their first season in the GTP category. Moreover, it presents Cameron with the opportunity to vie for his third overall title with a third different manufacturer. Having previously clinched the championship with Cadillac in 2016 and with Acura in 2019 under Penske’s tutelage, Cameron’s experience and skill will undoubtedly be an asset to the IMSA team.
On the other hand, Campbell, who has been a key figure in Porsche’s IMSA campaign, will make his debut in the WEC next year. He will join the #5 Porsche alongside Michael Christensen and Frederic Makowiecki. This move allows Campbell to explore a new championship and showcase his talent on the global stage.
Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President of Porsche Motorsport, explains that the driving lineup decisions were made with the goal of optimizing the overall package to compete in both major championships. Porsche aims to excel in North America, Le Mans, and the FIA World Endurance Championship. The company’s high expectations for the upcoming season drive the determination to assemble the strongest possible teams in each series.
Remarkably, the swap between Cameron and Campbell will be the only change in Porsche’s factory LMDh line-ups for 2024. The German manufacturer has decided to retain all 10 drivers across its two programs. This decision demonstrates their confidence in the existing lineup’s abilities and demonstrates Porsche’s commitment to maintaining stability and consistency within their teams.
Additionally, Porsche has exciting plans for the Rolex 24 at Daytona, a renowned endurance race. Nick Tandy and Mathieu Jaminet will continue piloting the #6 Porsche in IMSA, with support from Laurens Vanthoor and Kevin Estre. Campbell and current Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden will join forces to support Nasr and strengthen the team’s chances in the demanding endurance event.
While Porsche endured a challenging season in 2023, remaining in contention for the IMSA title until the final race, their sights are firmly set on claiming victory in 2024. With the revised driver line-ups, Porsche aims to lead the way in both the IMSA series and the WEC. The company’s unwavering determination and talented drivers promise an exciting and highly competitive campaign ahead.
Porsche’s decision to shake up its motorsport line-up for the 2024 season reveals the company’s relentless pursuit of success. By strategically repositioning their drivers, Porsche aims to optimize their overall package and excel on both the national and global stages. With a combination of experience, skill, and ambition, the Porsche factory LMDh teams are poised for an exhilarating and fiercely competitive season.
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