The new Audi R8 GT3 race car will make its competition debut at the Nürburgring this weekend, with sports-car legends Hans Stuck, Frank Biela and Emanuele Pirro behind the wheel.

Audi R8 LMS - GT3

A V10-engined R8 LMS entered by Phoenix Racing will make its first racing appearance in the opening round of the Langstrekenmeisterschaft (long-distance) championship on the famous Nüburgring Nordschleife. The outing is a precursor to an attempt to win the famous Nürburgring 24 Hours in May.

“Our three legends have a lot of experience and will provide us with important feedback for the continuing development of our new GT3 vehicle. We want to learn as much as possible,” said Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich.

Audi retained five-time Le Mans winners Biela and Pirro to test and develop the R8 after their stints with the German manufacturer’s prototype program ended last year. Stuck, now 58, is a former DTM champion with Audi and is a motorsport adviser and ambassador for the Volkswagen Group.

The R8 LMS also will race in a number of GT3 championships around Europe this year. Six teams are scheduled to field cars in the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT Masters in Germany, the French GT Championship and the Italian GT Championship.

Source : http://www.autoweek.com/article/20090402/GRAND_AM/904029993

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