Julien Andlauer’s appointment to Porsche Penske Motorsport’s factory LMDh roster for the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season signifies a major milestone in his career—a culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, and standout performances. As Andlauer steps into the No. 5 Porsche 963 alongside Michael Christensen, he reflects on his long-standing relationship with Porsche and his remarkable journey from customer teams to the top echelon of motorsport.

A Longstanding Partnership with Porsche

Andlauer’s connection with Porsche dates back nearly a decade, starting with a one-off outing in the Porsche Carrera Cup Italia in 2015 during the support races for the 24 Hours of Spa. This marked the beginning of a relationship that would see him rise through the ranks of Porsche’s motorsport ecosystem. By 2017, Andlauer claimed victory in the Porsche Carrera Cup France, a success that earned him a coveted spot as a Porsche Junior driver for the next two years.

As a Porsche Junior, Andlauer honed his skills in GT racing, gaining invaluable experience that would later prove instrumental in his transition to prototypes. His time as a young professional driver further solidified his standing within Porsche’s ranks, showcasing his adaptability and talent in various racing disciplines.

However, his journey wasn’t without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted motorsport schedules and curtailed many programs, leaving Andlauer navigating a difficult period in 2020 and 2021. Despite these setbacks, he remained closely tied to Porsche, primarily through customer teams such as Proton Competition. This unwavering commitment would eventually pay dividends.

Building a Foundation with Proton Competition

Proton Competition played a pivotal role in Andlauer’s career, providing him with opportunities to compete at the highest levels of GT racing. It was with Proton that Andlauer achieved a breakthrough victory in the GTE-Am class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2018. This win not only cemented his status as a rising star but also strengthened his bond with both Proton and Porsche.

The partnership with Proton reached new heights in 2023 when Andlauer joined the team’s LMP2 program in the Asian Le Mans Series. This experience laid the groundwork for his transition to the Hypercar category, as he demonstrated his ability to adapt to more complex machinery. Proton’s trust in Andlauer culminated in his participation in their Porsche 963 LMDh program, marking his debut in top-class prototype racing.

Reflecting on his time with Proton, Andlauer expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities they provided: “It’s the culmination of everything—the trust they’ve put in me for so many years. Proton and Porsche have been instrumental in my journey, and to step into a Hypercar is a dream come true.”

A Season of Stellar Performances

Andlauer’s 2023 season with Proton’s Porsche 963 was a critical factor in securing his promotion to Porsche Penske Motorsport’s factory team. Despite having no prior experience in top-class prototypes, Andlauer quickly made a name for himself with a series of strong performances. His standout moment came during the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, where he led a significant portion of the race and executed several daring overtakes through Eau Rouge, besting competitors from Alpine and Toyota.

These performances showcased Andlauer’s ability to excel in high-pressure situations, manage fuel and tire strategies effectively, and maintain consistent pace over long stints. His adaptability and precision caught the attention of Porsche’s decision-makers, solidifying his reputation as a driver capable of competing at the highest level.

“I’ve always believed that if you’re fast in one car, you can be fast in most cars,” Andlauer remarked. “Learning with Proton in Hypercar was a big help. Even though it’s a different environment compared to a factory team, it allowed me to develop skills that are crucial in top-class competition.”

The Transition to Hypercar

The move from GT racing to prototypes is no small feat, especially in an era where Hypercar regulations have blurred the lines between different racing categories. Andlauer acknowledged the challenges of competing against seasoned single-seater drivers and experienced prototype racers but emphasized the growing similarities between modern GT and Hypercar machinery.

“Back in the day, there was a significant difference between a GT car and an LMP1 prototype,” he explained. “Now, the LMDh is much closer to what we’re used to driving in GT. This makes the transition more feasible, but it’s still a steep learning curve.”

Andlauer’s ability to adapt quickly to the demands of Hypercar racing was evident in his performances throughout the 2023 season. By consistently delivering strong results and avoiding costly mistakes, he demonstrated that he was ready to take on the challenges of factory-backed competition.

Gratitude and Ambition

As Andlauer prepares for his debut season with Porsche Penske Motorsport, he remains humble and deeply appreciative of the support he has received from both Porsche and Proton. He credits their trust and investment in his development as key factors in his success, noting that their partnership has been a constant source of motivation.

“When you look at Le Mans, I’ve raced there every year for the last seven years with Porsche and Proton,” he said. “That consistency and trust have been vital in my journey to the top.”

Looking ahead, Andlauer is determined to make the most of this opportunity, not only for himself but also as a way to give back to the teams that have supported him. His ambition and work ethic suggest that he is well-equipped to thrive in the highly competitive environment of factory Hypercar racing.

Julien Andlauer’s promotion to Porsche Penske Motorsport’s factory LMDh roster is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication. From his early days in the Porsche Carrera Cup to his breakthrough performances with Proton Competition, Andlauer has consistently demonstrated the qualities required to succeed at the highest levels of motorsport.

As he steps into the No. 5 Porsche 963 for the 2024 FIA WEC season, Andlauer embodies the culmination of years of hard work and the realization of a dream. With the support of Porsche and Proton, he is poised to make a significant impact in the Hypercar category, further solidifying his place among the elite drivers in endurance racing.

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