LONE STAR LE MANS: BOP ANALISYS

The WEC kicks off again after the summer break with the Austin round, a track that has historically never produced a straightforward race. After the intense debates following the 6 Hours of São Paulo—where the Balance of Performance (BoP) once again came under scrutiny—FIA and ACO now face the challenge of getting the regulations right and avoiding another misstep. At first glance, the adjustments seem to have been better executed than in the past, but the real test will be the race itself: only then will we know if the changes truly made the field more balanced. The impression, however, is that Austin could deliver a fiercely contested race, without a clear favorite.

The critical point concerns Porsche. The 963s will carry 12 kilograms more, 21 kW less power, and a reduction in energy available per stint. Last year, the Texas track already proved challenging for the Stuttgart cars, and it’s unlikely this edition will be any easier. In fact, given the progress made by Ferrari, Cadillac, and BMW, the forecast points to a defensive race for the Germans, who seem to have lost much of their 2024 advantages.

Ferrari faces a similar situation but comes with an encouraging precedent: twelve months ago at Austin, they secured pole position and victory. Repeating that feat will be difficult, as the competition has grown stronger, but a fight for the lead is certainly possible.

For Toyota, the situation is different: they continue to be treated as if they dominate the championship, even though the results don’t fully support that perception. A year ago, they were very fast at both Austin and São Paulo, but replicating those performances now seems challenging.

Cadillac could enter the battle, although for the first time in WEC history, they will have to manage a significant minimum weight. Further back, at least on paper, are BMW and Alpine, who don’t seem to have the credentials to aim for victory but could target a podium if race conditions allow.

© Simone Marchetti Cavalieri

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