Valentino Rossi to test BMW M Hybrid V8 LMDh Hypercar

A seven-time MotoGP champion, the legendary Rossi is already racing a WRT BMW in the LMGT3 and has been unleashed on BMW’s M Motorsport simulator in preparation for the step up to the Hypercar class. 

Rossi said: “I am thrilled that I can test the Hypercar. We have been looking for a date for a long time, and now it has finally worked out. I really wanted to do this test to get a feel for what the BMW M Hybrid V8 can do.

“For me, the Hypercars are the MotoGP of prototype racing. They have a lot of power and are very impressive. I prepared in the BMW M Motorsport simulator and already got a first impression, but Sunday in Bahrain in the real car will be even more exciting. I am very curious to see what potential I have in the BMW M Hybrid V8.”

The day before Rossi’s test, BMW will race with two BMW M Hybrid V8s and two BMW M4 GT3s, hoping to build on the success of its first podium finish in Fuji, Japan, in its rookie season. 

Head of BMW M Motorsport, Andreas Roos, said: “In Bahrain, our debut season with the BMW M Hybrid V8 in the FIA WEC comes to an end. We look back on a year with ups and downs but can see a clear upward trend in the last races. The first podium at Fuji was a great motivation for the entire team, and we will do everything we can to set another highlight in Bahrain. This also applies to our BMW M4 GT3, which is still fighting for second place in the overall standings."

“I am also looking forward to seeing how our three 'rookies' will perform on Sunday. They have prepared as best as they can in the BMW M Motorsport simulator. We are very pleased to be able to offer the three drivers this opportunity in the cockpit of the BMW M Hybrid V8.”

The 8 Hours of Bahrain starts on the 2^nd November at 11:00 UK time (14:00 local time).