Munich. The results for BMW Team RLL in the Continental Tire
Sports Car Showcase at Road America (USA) belie an effort that came
within minutes of delivering the first victory for the BMW M8 GTE.
Taking over the lead on lap 42 with one hour remaining, Connor De
Phillippi (USA), driving the No. 25 BMW M8 GTE, looked to be a
winner until minutes from the chequered flag. Although indicated as
full of fuel on the last pit stop, a refuelling system issue did not
in fact fill the car and De Phillippi was halted on track just
before the white flag flew.
The No. 25 BMW M8 GTE of De Phillippi and Alexander Sims (GBR)
ultimately finished sixth, two laps in arrears of the GTLM class
winning No. 67 Ford GT. After a very strong day, the No. 24 BMW M8 GTE
of John Edwards (USA) and Jesse Krohn (FIN) was forced to retire from
the race with a mechanical issue on lap 52 and was credited with an
eighth place finish.
The No. 96 Turner Motorsport BMW M6 GT3 of Robby Foley (USA) and
Markus Palttala (FIN) finished fourth in the GTD class.
Reactions to the race at Road America:
Bobby Rahal (BMW Team RLL, Team Principal): “The No.
25 car must be a little askew in the fuel tank. It looked like there
was enough during the last pit stop, but there just wasn’t. It’s tough
to be that close to winning the race, but we leave knowing we’re competitive.”
Connor De Phillippi (No. 25 BMW M8 GTE, 6th place):
“We led a large portion of the last stint, but with two laps
to go, I had a stumble and coming into the last corner just ran
completely out. I wouldn’t say I am disappointed because the guys put
in so much hard work, but we did not get the result we deserved.”
Alexander Sims (No. 25 BMW M8 GTE, 6th place):
“The car was handling nicely and the guys were doing a great
job, but – plain and simple – this was a tough way to lose.”
John Edwards (No. 24 BMW M8 GTE, 8th place):
“We were quite competitive today and once again had a
mechanical issue, so it’s really disappointing because I think we had
a sure spot at a podium and potentially a P2.”
Jesse Krohn (No. 24 BMW M8 GTE, 8th place):
“Early on in the race it looked good. We were able to keep up
with the pack and even fight for position, but ultimately it wasn’t
our day.”
Next for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship is the race
at the Michelin GT Challenge at VIR on 19th August.