This weekend BMW Team RLL will bring its BMW M3 GT win streak to the venerable Mosport International Raceway for the Grand Prix of Mosport. The only American Le Mans Series event in Canada, the historic road course has only given up only one podium finish to the team in two previous seasons – a third place finish last year by Bill Auberlen (US) and Tommy Milner (US).
Following a dominating performance at Lime Rock Park (US) and a third consecutive GT victory for Joey Hand (US) and Dirk Mϋller (DE) the team is committed to race for their best Mosport result yet.
Of particular importance, the defending GT Manufacturer and Team champions will look to increase Hand and Mϋller’s 33 point lead (70 total) in the driver standings. With seventh and eighth place finishes at Long Beach (US) and Lime Rock Park, Auberlen and Dirk Werner (DE) stand fourth (tied) with 33 points on the basis of a strong second place finish at the 12 Hours of Sebring (US).
Bobby Rahal (Team Principal): “While we have had a great start to the 2011 season, this weekend’s event at Mosport will be a challenge for our entire team. We are confident in our setup and our drivers there, but we haven't gotten the results we have hoped for in our previous visits, so we are working hard to change that this weekend. We have had a strong start in the championship but in this field, you can’t drop your guard for a minute, and we don’t intend to let down this weekend.”
Bill Auberlen (Car number 55):“I can’t wait to go to Mosport. It is a track that separates the men from the boys. It’s fast, hairy and perfect for the great handling of our BMW M3 GT. With three straight victories for BMW Team RLL, I’m sure the competition is scratching their heads, but it is pretty tough to beat a team that is so on its game. I’m proud to be a part of such an amazing programme.”
Dirk Werner (Car number 55):“It is great that we are now racing every 14 days in the ALMS. One highlight is followed by the next. Having been unfortunate in the last two races, it goes without saying that Bill Auberlen and I would now like to finally harvest the fruits of our labour."
Joey Hand (Car number 56):“The epic year continues – three races – three wins. Our points lead is promising, but not promised and there’s no reason to think that we won’t be a contender for another victory at Mosport. Our BMW M3 GT is strong on high speed Mosport corners. I get asked if I change my strategy or outlook because of our points lead. I don’t think we are at that point yet in the season. We are not settling in by any stretch of the imagination. The car was so strong at Lime Rock Park. It was a pleasure to drive. I’m sure the guys will be ready with another great set-up for Mosport.”
Dirk Müller (Car number 56): “The circuit in Mosport is the fastest on the ALMS calendar. I am confident that our BMW M3 GT will run just as well there as in Sebring, Long Beach and Lime Rock. We want to continue where we left off, and will be doing everything in our powers to ensure that, after three wins in a row, we are also on top of the GT podium in Canada. However, we are also well aware that the opposition has not been sleeping. Whatever happens, we are extremely motivated.”