A Momentous Victory
In challenging circumstances amid outbreaks of torrential storms, Aston Martin celebrated a momentous victory ahead of major competition at the centenary edition 2024 Crowdstrike 24 Hours of Spa. In front of the eyes of nearly 100,000 spectators, our new Vantage GT3 streamed ahead of the pack to secure its maiden win in Belgium and our first overall win at the event since 1948.
Drivers Mattia Drudi (ITA), Marco Sørensen (DEN), and Nicki Thiim (DEN), alongside Aston Martin partner team Comtoyou Racing, stormed ahead of formidable competition to deliver a victory seventy-six years in the making. The triumph is testament not only to the impressive on-track capabilities of the Vantage GT3, but also the resilience of an incredibly impressive team that has added a significant milestone to Aston Martin's storied racing pedigree.
Despite the onslaught of rain and the impact of on-track incidents, the Vantage GT3 held strong after starting from 14th. Derived from our Vantage road car – the GT3 showcased the strategic and on-track driving talents of an exceptional team. Affectionately known as the 'Dane Train', Vantage GT3 drivers Sørensen and Thiim celebrated their first 24-hour race win together that left an impeccable Drudi unchallenged as the chequered flag came down, serenaded by the roar of a fearsome twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine. A second Vantage GT3 then crossed the line in fourth place led by David Pittard (GBR), Ross Gunn (GBR), Henrique Chaves (POR) at partner team Walkenhorst Motorsport, and would have likely secured a second podium finish for the car if not for a penalty .
This dramatic victory, following a series of four triumphs in June, is continued proof of the track prowess of the new Vantage GT3. We now look ahead to a packed July schedule that will take the Vantage GT3 to Hockenheim to compete in the third round of the 2024 GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup as well as the 3 hours of Nürburgring at the end of July.
Further success in future races for Vantage GT3 will build on this Spa triumph to solidify our commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation in endurance racing. Another victory emboldens the Vantage road car's growing legacy.