BAR1 Motorsports readies two cars for testing at Sebring

BAR1 Motorsports will kick-off their season in the American Le Mans Series February 7 at Sebring International Raceway attending the Series' annual winter test. This will be BAR1's second full season in the highly competitive Prototype Challenge division.

An Oreca FLM-09 LMPC chassis during testing

Photo by: John Thawley

"We've made a lot of headway," cited Alder. "We're in a new shop, we've put both cars through rigorous refurbishing and built up a strong compliment of spare parts and components. We've revisited everyone's role within the team and put together a very competitive driver line up…. including our third driver options for the longer events. We're prepared for a serious run at the championship."

Kyle Marcelli will return to his position in the No. 8 car. Kyle and Alder have enjoyed lots of success together and both feel the stability in their relationship will convert to success on the track.

"I'm very happy to be re-signed by BAR1 Motorsports for the 2013 American Le Mans Series," said Kyle. "Brian has built a very nice team and filled it with some great individuals for 2013. I think I speak for everyone at BAR1 in saying that we are very confident about our program and eager to get underway."

Joining Kyle in the No. 8 car will be fellow Canadian, Chris Cumming. Cumming previously competed in the GTC division of the ALMS with JDX Racing, driving a Porsche. For the longer events, Chris and Kyle will be joined by Stefan Johansson.

Stefan spoke about the opportunity: "I am very excited to join BAR1 Motorsports for the 2013 Sebring 12 hour race. Sebring is one of the most challenging and demanding races in the world, it is a true test of both man and machinery. It's a great honor for me to be invited by BAR1Motorsports for this event. It is a team with very high quality people and a great track record. I am looking forward to contribute in every which way I can to add to their collection of trophies"

Marcelli also spoke about his co-driver, Chris Cumming and third driver, Stefan Johansson.

"Chris showed very well in 2012 in the GTC category," added Kyle. "I'm confident he will do a great job this year in prototype. I look forward to working with him and getting him comfortable as quick as possible in the new office. Plus he's Canadian so at least we cheer for the same hockey team!"

"Stefan and I have come close to working with each other on a few programs over the years, so I'm happy to hear he is a part of this effort. Stefan definitely brings a lot of additional value to the program. I'm sure he will teach us a few tricks."

The team will announce the driver line up for the No. 7 car following the Winter test, however, Alder is pleased to announce Merchant Services LTD. will return as a sponsor on the car.

"I'm pleased to continue our relationship with Merchant Services," noted Alder. "We've had a long standing relationship and together with Chapman Ducote, they've been a great asset to our team. Chapman will be on hand as a third driver in the No. 7 car. I'm hoping his new role as a cast member of the reality show, Kim and Kourtney Take Miami, will bring some added exposure to the team and our program."

BAR1 Motorsports