This article discusses Aston Martin’s return to the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) with the launch of two entries in the hypercar class, including a reentry into the esteemed Le Mans 24 Hour race. The brand introduces the Valkyrie LMH, a revolutionary model developed in collaboration with the Heart of Racing team, equipped with a formidable 6.5-litre V12 engine producing over 1000bhp and reaching 11,000rpm. The car, tailored for endurance racing, aligns with the Balance of Performance standards in the hypercar segment of WEC, eschewing the hybrid system found in its road-going counterparts. The 2025 regulations require a minimum of two cars per manufacturer, placing Aston Martin in competition with renowned names like Toyota, Ferrari, Peugeot, BMW, and Alpine.
Adam Carter, head of endurance motorsport at Aston Martin, highlights the brand’s rich legacy at Le Mans and its commitment to leading in the hypercar field. Aston Martin’s participation in Le Mans more than 95 years ago distinguishes it as a significant player in the world of road-going hypercars. The company’s dedication to the WEC’s hypercar concept and the return of its iconic wings to international sportscar racing, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, is evident in their development of the Valkyrie AMR-LMH. The car’s track debut is planned for later this year, with an intensive testing period to gather data and prepare for its formal entry into competition.
Ian James, principal of the Heart of Racing team, acknowledges the accelerated timeline required to meet the new WEC regulations and run multiple cars in the hypercar class. Despite the condensed build-up process, James expresses excitement for the prospect of having two cars in the field and participating in a class that has seen rapid growth in recent years. The challenge ahead is significant, but the team is eager to embark on this journey and compete at the top level of endurance racing. Aston Martin’s involvement in multiple racing levels, from Hypercar to GT4 and even Formula 1 with Fernando Alonso, underscores the brand’s racing pedigree and pervasive presence across international motorsport.
As Aston Martin prepares for its reentry into WEC and Le Mans with the Valkyrie LMH, the broader implications for the sport are substantial. The brand’s commitment to various racing categories positions them uniquely within the motorsports landscape, showcasing their versatility and dedication to competition. Aston Martin’s presence at the highest levels of endurance racing, alongside other prestigious manufacturers, adds excitement and competition to the WEC hypercar class. The development of the Valkyrie AMR-LMH and the rigorous testing regimen leading to its homologation illustrate Aston Martin’s thorough preparation and determination to succeed at the pinnacle of endurance racing.
