Photo: MPS Agency
Nico Varrone will complete Corvette Racing’s lineup for its GTE-Am class entry in the FIA World Endurance Championship, with the Argentinean joining the previously announced Ben Keating and Nicky Catsburg in the No. 33 Chevrolet Corvette C8.R.
The 22-year-old was one of several Silver-rated drivers the Pratt Miller-run squad evaluated in last November’s WEC rookie test in Bahrain and has since completed an additional outing with the team at Sebring International Raceway.
Varrone has been a regular in GT and prototype competition in recent years, including winning the opening round of the 2022 European Le Mans Series season in a Rinaldi Racing-run Ferrari 488 GTE Evo.
“I’m really, really happy and over the moon for this opportunity,” he said. “It always was my dream to be at this level and be on a team with a magnificent brand like Corvette Racing.
“To be paired with two legendary drivers like Ben and Nicky also is very special.
“I have to say a big thank to you to Jeroen Bleekmolen for recommending me. He is close to both Ben and Nicky so it’s quite a nice feeling. I can’t wait for us to start with this program.”
Corvette Racing will make the move to GTE-Am this year with its first customer racing program spearheaded by Keating.
GTE-Am rules mandate that each lineup must consist of at least one Bronze-rated driver as well as an additional Bronze or a Silver.
“I’ve driven other GT cars but the Corvette is one of the best feelings I’ve ever had in a race car,” Varrone added. “It’s a natural and proper race car, for sure.
“The confidence it gives in the high-speed corners, the traction and the braking of the car is amazing. It fits me just right.
“I felt comfortable almost right away. I was expecting it to be like other GT cars I’ve driven, but to me it’s more similar to a prototype. It’s a mega sensation for the drivers.
“I enjoyed every lap I’ve done so far. I can’t wait for more.”
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By: John Dagys
Title: Varrone Completes Corvette’s GTE-Am Lineup
Sourced From: sportscar365.com/lemans/wec/varrone-completes-corvette-racings-gte-am-lineup/
Published Date: Sat, 14 Jan 2023 14:11:41 +0000
