Crowdstrike Racing by Algarve Pro (APR) finalized its driver lineup for the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 15-16, 2024, with Nicky Catsburg joining the team’s regular drivers, Colin Braun and George Kurtz. Catsburg, the Dutchman who emerged victorious in the last edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the GTE-Am category for Corvette Racing, will partner with Braun and Kurtz in their Oreca 07-Gibson #45 in the LMP2 Pro-Am category. The trio will be competing in a highly competitive field for the 92nd edition of the race. Braun and Kurtz, who clinched the title in the Asian Le Mans LMP2 2023-24 series with Crowdstrike by APR, received an invitation to defend their victory in the LMP2 Pro-Am category from last year. Kurtz secured his own invitation after winning the Jim Trueman Trophy in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship 2023.
Catsburg expressed his excitement, stating: “It is a great privilege to be part of the CrowdStrike Racing by APR at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans.” Despite having competed in Le Mans five times before, this will be his first experience driving a sports car prototype. He emphasized the importance of the race, describing it as an event that drivers never want to miss. Catsburg acknowledged the challenge of competing in a new class but expressed confidence in his ability to adapt quickly with the guidance of his teammate, Colin Braun. He believes that their partnership, along with George Kurtz, forms a formidable team capable of competing for victory in their category. Catsburg also expressed enthusiasm about working with the APR team, as he has a long-standing relationship with Stuart and Samantha Cox. He mentioned that it will be a new and exciting endeavor, as the race car he will be driving has more downforce than he is used to. Catsburg is looking forward to the opportunity to test the car before the race and is eager for the experience.
George Kurtz, expressing his joy, shared: “I am thrilled to have Nicky joining Colin and me on our team for Le Mans.” He emphasized that his team represents strength, experience, and a winning tradition, and believes that Catsburg’s impressive track record, including victories in prestigious races such as the 24 Hours of Daytona, the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, and the 24 Hours of Spa, will be invaluable in their pursuit of a second consecutive triumph in the Pro-Am category at Le Mans.
