Credit: Julien Delfosse / DPPI
Phil Hanson stated that in endurance racing, the typical progression is to move up in the order of Le Mans Prototypes. However, with the introduction of Hypercars, which are the new version of LMP1, his goal has always been to compete in this category. He has been sharing the car with drivers who have experience in Hypercar or the equivalent in the United States, the GTP. This step towards Hypercar has been a long-term goal for him, and he feels fortunate to have the opportunity to race for JOTA, a great team.
Hanson mentioned that driving both LMP2 and Hypercars is surprisingly similar, especially because he is familiar with the tracks and the championship. The only difference is getting used to the specific car and its systems and electronics. Fortunately, the team has been incredibly helpful in guiding him through this learning process. He has already competed against his teammates Oliver Rasmussen and Will Stevens in LMP2 for many years, creating a sense of camaraderie within the team.
Competing in the United Autosports LMP2 program at Le Mans since 2018, Hanson has already achieved success, winning the LMP2 class in the 2020 edition with Felipe and Paul di Resta. He has also driven a Porsche for JDC Miller MotorSports in the 24 Hours of Daytona, the 12 Hours of Sebring, and will be competing in the 6 Hours of Glen for the IMSA Endurance Cup.
In addition, Hanson made his Hypercar debut this year with JOTA, driving the second car alongside Rasmussen and Jenson Button, a former Formula 1 champion. After finishing 11th in the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, the team is aiming for a podium finish in the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans. Porsche has shown competitiveness, with all six of their cars having a chance of victory.
