Le Mans Series 2011
Team RLR announces Driver Development Programme
Issued January 24th 2011

RLR Build Up SPEED to LMS

TEAM RLR is looking to build upon the team's progress in endurance racing by announcing a Driver Development Scheme to provide a route for up-and-coming sports car drivers that could lead all the way to the Le Mans 24 Hour Race.

The team has entered both their Ligier JS49 Sports Prototypes in the 2011 SPEED Euroseries which will act as a support series on the LMS calendar, visiting all five locations – Paul Ricard, Spa, Imola, Silverstone and Estoril – in addition to a stand-alone race weekend at Donington.

Bolton-based RLR Msport – which runs the Team RLR MG-Lola EX265 - will use the SPEED Series to enable any drivers from the team, who show sufficient potential in the SPEED series, to earn an opportunity to test their LMP2 car at the end of the season.

“We see the SPEED series being part of the natural progression for those drivers who wish to advance in to Le Mans Prototypes,” said Team Principal Nick Reynolds.

“The fact that it now mirrors the LMS through their five round championship makes the SPEED Series the ideal platform for our Driver Development Scheme.

“With two races at each event for teams of two drivers per car, the SPEED Euroseries is an excellent opportunity for drivers to get a taste of endurance racing in sophisticated sports prototypes before moving up to the bigger stage of LMS itself.

“All three drivers who were regulars in our car last season – Barry Gates, Rob Garofall and Simon Phillips – as well as guest driver Warren Hughes, have all driven in the SPEED series.

“Not everyone gets the chance to sit in a full-blown Le Mans racer. This could be a once-in-a-lifetime chance for someone to make a real name for himself.

“Hopefully, whoever takes up our opportunity to test the LMP2 car, will view it as the chance to progress in the LMS.”

To find out more about Team RLR and its Le Mans Series campaign log on to: www.rlrrmotorsport.com