Corvette Z06 GT3.R Triumphs: First FIA WEC Victory Achieved in Qatar

The Corvette Z06 GT3.R achieved its first FIA WEC victory in Qatar, overcoming a starting position of 13th. Daniel Juncadella, Jonny Edgar, and Ben Keating executed a game-winning strategy, with Juncadella securing the lead midway through the race. Despite mechanical issues for the other Corvette, the team’s performance marked a significant success in their inaugural WEC campaign, adding to their triumph at Daytona.

Corvette Racing has made a significant mark in motorsport by achieving its first-ever victory in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) with the Z06 GT3.R. This historic win transpired during the Qatar 1812Km race, where the No. 33 Corvette, driven by Daniel Juncadella, Jonny Edgar, and Ben Keating, executed a remarkable comeback from 13th position to clinch the checkered flag by a narrow margin of less than half a second.

This triumph is notable not just for its victory but for the symbolic significance it carries. The Corvette Z06 GT3.R had previously secured the GTD class win at the Rolex 24 At Daytona, and now it adds an FIA WEC trophy, further amplifying Corvette Racing’s competitive standing. For Juncadella and Edgar, it marked their debut victories in both WEC and with the Corvette, while Keating celebrated his eighth WEC victory, with four victories now achieved in a Corvette.

Ben Keating initiated the race’s momentum by advancing from 13th to sixth position in the initial three hours, demonstrating his resilience after a hiatus since winning the 2023 GTE Am title. Edgar, in his WEC debut, further propelled the Corvette’s position as daylight subsided, before Juncadella took control and pushed the team into the lead midway through the race, focusing on maintaining their position.

As the final 90 minutes approached, Juncadella returned to the cockpit for the concluding stint, opting for a strategic fuel and tire stop. Meanwhile, the second-place McLaren chose a full set of new tires. This decision led to a gripping finale where Juncadella skillfully navigated through traffic and fended off persistent challenges from competitors over the closing thirty minutes of the race.

Unfortunately, the No. 81 Corvette faced adversity with a mechanical issue just an hour into the race. However, the success of the No. 33 overshadowed this setback, marking a significant day for Corvette Racing. In the Hypercar class, Ferrari’s AF Corse secured a podium sweep, with Antonio Fuoco besting Robert Kubica to claim victory in the No. 83 Ferrari 499P, as competitors like BMW, Toyota, and Cadillac displayed flashes of brilliance.

Juncadella’s performance was not merely about survival, but about thriving under pressure, as he faced severe competition from McLaren’s Grégoire Saucy in the final moments. This second victory of 2025 for Corvette signifies a strong start to their season.

In summary, the Corvette Z06 GT3.R’s victory at the FIA WEC race in Qatar stands as a testament to the increasing competitiveness of Corvette Racing. With remarkable performances by Juncadella, Edgar, and Keating, the new GT3 challenger has made its presence felt in the endurance racing arena. Anticipation builds as they prepare for the upcoming 6 Hours of Imola, aiming to maintain their winning momentum.

Original Source: www.autoweek.com