DragonSpeed has completed the line-up for its LMP2 title defence in the Rolex 24 at Daytona, adding GT3 racers Christoper Mies and Fabian Schiller to its ranks.
The American outfit is entering a pair of ORECA 07-Gibsons into this month’s Florida endurance classic, the second of which had its line-up yet to be confirmed as only Eric Lux was previously announced. Joining Lux aboard the #18 car are Mies, Schiller and Indy Pro 2000 Rookie of the Year Devlin DeFrancesco.
Mies, 31, is an Audi factory driver with a number of accolades in international GT3 competition. The German has won championship in multiple series and also holds two wins in the Nürburging 24 Hours.
“It means a lot to be back at Daytona for the Rolex 24 after missing last year,” Mies said. “It will be my first time in an LMP2 car, so I really appreciate the trust placed in me by Elton as well as my sponsors Montaplast and Wilhelm May.
“Together with Eric, Devlin, and my friend and rival Fabi, we will have one of the strongest driver crews and I can’t wait to get started.”
Schiller, 23 is a Mercedes factory driver and also has multiple starts in the Nürburgring 24 Hours and Spa 24 Hours under his belt. In addition to a single Daytona start in 2019, the German has previous LMP2 experience with an Asian Le Mans Series win in 2017.
“I’m so thankful to Elton and DragonSpeed for this opportunity,” said Schiller. “I share some great memories with a few of the guys on the team, so I’m looking forward to working with them again.
“Being back in a prototype is especially exciting for me and together with my good friend Chris, Devlin, and Eric I believe we have a lineup that can deliver a great result.”
The team’s second car will feature Rob Hodes, Garret Grist, Rinus VeeKay and Ben Hanley. Team principal Elton Julian believes both cars have a good shot at repeating the team’s two previous victories.
“The 18 car’s drivers combine youthful speed with extensive endurance racing backgrounds, experience at Daytona, and factory race team discipline,” said Julian. “I have no doubt they will be contenders for the win in LMP2 with a laser-like focus on what it takes to get there.
“In addition to reuniting with Eric, we are delighted to welcome Devlin, Chris, and Fabian to the team for the first race of what we all hope will be a much better year for our sport and the world.”
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