On November 3, 2024, at the Bahrain International Circuit, Arthur Leclerc showcased his talent during the FIA World Endurance Championship’s Rookie Test, turning heads as he led the newcomers in a thrilling display of skill. The Ferrari development driver’s performance was particularly notable, especially as he navigated the leap from LMP2 to the prominent Hypercar category with remarkable ease. Joining him on the track was motorsport legend Valentino Rossi, who also made a significant impact during his first outing in a Hypercar.
The Rookie Test is a cherished event in the WEC calendar, traditionally held after the conclusion of the racing season. This test offers aspiring drivers the chance to experience various vehicles and categories, particularly benefiting those with limited endurance racing backgrounds. While Leclerc has previously tasted success in the European Le Mans Series, stepping into a Hypercar represents a significant milestone in his career. Over the course of 61 laps in the Ferrari AF Corse 499P, he clocked in just shy of Nicklas Nielsen’s best time, a testament to his adaptability and skill.
Valentino Rossi’s debut in the BMW M Hybrid V8 was equally impressive. The nine-time world motorcycle champion quickly acclimated to the complexities of a Hypercar, finishing second among the rookies and trailing Leclerc by a mere 0.117 seconds. This swift adaptation underscores Rossi’s prowess as a versatile driver, capable of excelling across different motorsport disciplines. His performance not only captivated fans but also set a high standard for other competitors during the test.
Further down the timesheets, FIA Formula 2 race-winner Victor Martins shone brightly, proving that he could hold his own among the more experienced drivers. Martins finished third in the rookie rankings, demonstrating his potential with the Alpine Endurance Team’s A424 prototype. The morning session saw him start strong, highlighting his rapid learning curve despite a lack of prior experience in endurance racing.
In the LMGT3 category, Ben Barnicoat turned in a standout performance, clocking the fastest time in his Lexus RC F LMGT3, outpacing all competitors by a significant margin. Following closely behind was Mahaveer Raghunathan, who finished second in the Ferrari 296 LMGT3. Aurélien Panis, the son of former F1 driver Olivier Panis, also made his presence felt, rounding out the top three in the LMGT3 class.
The Rookie Test not only serves as a platform for emerging talent but also enriches the competitive landscape of the World Endurance Championship, making it a thrilling spectacle for fans and teams alike.