Brabham planning WEC GTE entry for 2021-22 season

The iconic Brabham name is set to return to top-line motorsport in 2021 when Brabham Automotive plans to enter the FIA World Endurance Championship’s GTE class.

Brabham Automotive launched its first sports car, the BT62, last year, and the company has been open about its desire to race competitively in conjunction with the crowd-funded ‘Project Brabham’ scheme that was launched back in 2014.

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, Brabham Automotive announced its intention to enter the WEC’s GTE class from the 2021-22 season, marking the return of the family name to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

“The son of three-time Formula 1 world champion Jack Brabham, David Brabham took overall victory at Le Mans in 2009, and last raced at the event in 2012.”

“Returning the Brabham name to Le Mans is something I have been working on for years, so it’s fantastic to make this announcement today,” Brabham Automotive managing director David Brabham said.

“Brabham Automotive only launched its first car, the BT62, in May 2018, so we have a long road to travel to earn the right to return to compete at Le Mans. That work starts now with a long-term racing commitment.

“We look forward to developing the BT62 and future products while building a world-class competitive race team around the leading engineering and manufacturing talent we have in the business.”

The news was welcomed by Pierre Fillon, president of Le Mans’ organising body, Automobile Club de l’Ouest.

“At Le Mans, the legendary Brabham name instantly conjures up memories of an outstanding family success story,” Fillon said.

“For the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, the return of the Brabham name to endurance racing is therefore much more than symbolic.

“It demonstrates remarkable loyalty and an extraordinary competitive spirit.”