6 Hours of São Paulo Returns to FIA World Endurance Championship
Autódromo José Carlos Pace, São Paulo, Brazil – July 14, 2024
After a nearly decade-long hiatus, the 6 Hours of São Paulo is making a much-anticipated return to the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) on July 14, 2024. This iconic race, held at the renowned Autódromo José Carlos Pace, also known as Interlagos, in São Paulo, Brazil, promises to bring thrilling endurance racing back to its passionate fans.
Historical Background
The 6 Hours of São Paulo first debuted on September 15, 2012, as part of the 2012 World Endurance Championship. The race quickly became a favorite due to its challenging circuit and enthusiastic Brazilian crowd. However, in 2015, the race was discontinued due to renovations at the Interlagos paddock and scheduling conflicts.
The event was set to make a comeback in 2020 as the fifth round of the 2019-20 FIA World Endurance Championship season. Unfortunately, it was cancelled because the event promoter failed to meet contractual obligations. Instead, the round was replaced by a race at the Circuit of the Americas.
2024 FIA World Endurance Championship
On June 9, 2023, the FIA announced the schedule for the 2024 World Endurance Championship, marking the return of the 6 Hours of São Paulo as the fifth race of the season. This announcement has been met with great excitement from teams, drivers, and fans alike, who are eager to see endurance racing back at Interlagos.
The Venue: Autódromo José Carlos Pace
Interlagos is a historic and technically demanding circuit, known for its undulating layout and combination of high-speed straights and challenging corners. The track is 4.309 km long and features 15 turns, offering a unique test for endurance racing teams. The unpredictable weather conditions in São Paulo often add an extra layer of complexity to the race, making strategy and adaptability crucial for success.
The Race
The 6 Hours of São Paulo will see a diverse grid of prototypes and GT cars battling it out for glory. The race will test the durability of the machines, the skill of the drivers, and the strategic acumen of the teams. Key competitors in the LMP1, LMP2, and GTE classes will be aiming to secure valuable championship points in this mid-season event.
Key Teams and Drivers:
Toyota Gazoo Racing: The reigning champions in the Hypercar class, known for their consistent performance and reliability.
Porsche and Ferrari: Leading contenders in the GTE Pro category, bringing their rich heritage and competitive spirit to the fore.
United Autosports and JOTA: Strong competitors in the LMP2 class, known for their tactical racing and skilled driver line-ups.
Fan Experience
The return of the 6 Hours of São Paulo is not only a treat for racing teams but also for the fans. The Brazilian motorsport enthusiasts are known for their fervor and passion, which will undoubtedly create an electrifying atmosphere at the circuit. The event is expected to draw large crowds, eager to witness the return of world-class endurance racing to their home soil.
Conclusion
The 6 Hours of São Paulo is set to be a highlight of the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship season. With its rich history, challenging circuit, and passionate fanbase, the race promises to deliver thrilling action and unforgettable moments. As teams and drivers prepare to tackle the legendary Interlagos track once again, motorsport fans worldwide will be watching closely to see who emerges victorious in this iconic endurance race.
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