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Le Mans dream to come true for WTCC great José María López

Three-time FIA World Touring Car Championship winner José María López will realise another dream later this season.

After completing his first WTCC stint with 29 wins, 21 poles and 29 fastest laps from 71 starts, López chose the FIA Formula E Championship for his next motorsport challenge. However, it was announced this morning that he will also chase success in selected FIA World Endurance Championship events - including the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours - driving a factory Toyota TS050 Hybrid.

During WTCC DHL Race of Qatar last November, López told journalists at the pre-event press conference: "it's one of my dreams to do Le Mans one day and if I can do it in LMP1 would be fantastic".

Now his agreement with Toyota Gazoo Racing has been confirmed, López said: "I can't wait to get to the first race. Driving an LMP1 car is very different compared to WTCC cars but I am enjoying this challenge. The power and grip of the TS050 Hybrid is incredible and Toyota's hybrid technology is impressive. I am looking forward to my first experience of WEC and particularly Le Mans which is a very special race."

Of his new signing, Toyota Gazoo Racing Team President Toshio Sato, said: "I would like to welcome José María to our team; I am confident he will fit in well as he is quick, intelligent and a strong team player."

While López's focus will be on Formula E and WEC in 2017, his former WTCC rivals are preparing for the opening event of the season, WTCC Race of Morocco in Marrakech from 7-9 April.

Zdroj: fiawtcc.com