At the Spa-Francorchamps leg of the European Le Mans Series in September, Racing Team Nederland driver Jan Lammers confided: “We should be going again in ELMS with the same team, the same car and the same lineup. However, the final decision is up to Frits!” The owner of the Dutch supermarket chain Jumbo, Frits van Eerd, the team’s main backer, has finally made his mind up. The team will negotiate the next step in its endurance learning curve in the World Endurance Championship (WEC).

Racing Team Nederland made its endurance début this year in the European Le Mans Series LMP2 class with a Dallara P217 – Gibson (11th in the Teams standings) for Van Eerd and Lammers, winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1988 in the #2 Jaguar XJR9. The Dutch outfit also appeared at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Rubens Barrichello, the record holder for the number of Formula One Grand Prix starts, offered a seat as the third driver. The Italian-built car finished in 12th place in the LMP2 class and 14th overall.

By taking part in the WEC 2018–19 Super Season, Racing Team Nederland is set for a double helping of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Van Eerd declared: “I am truly proud that, following our début year, we will be making such a significant and ambitious step. With our participation in the FIA World Endurance Championship, The Netherlands will be represented at the highest level of sportscar racing.”

For the time being, Van Eerd is the only driver confirmed by Racing Team Nederland. Others will shortly follow in the New Year, with the WEC and 24 Hours of Le Mans lists due to be unveiled on 9 February.

Information from the team’s Facebook page.