The Aston Martin THOR Team, tasked with returning the iconic British luxury performance brand to the pinnacle of endurance racing, has announced the first two drivers for its 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) campaign. Alex Riberas (ESP) and Harry Tincknell (GBR) will be part of the effort to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans outright, marking the first potential victory for Aston Martin in this event since 1959.
Experience Meets Innovation
Both drivers bring extensive experience with Aston Martin machinery and have been instrumental in the development of the revolutionary Valkyrie hypercar. Over the summer, they contributed to a rigorous testing program that has shaped the Valkyrie into a contender for endurance racing’s highest honors.
The Aston Martin Valkyrie, a marvel of engineering and design, will debut at the Qatar 1812km on February 28, 2025. It is the only FIA Hypercar to compete in both the WEC and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (IMSA) in the same season. Reviving the legendary #007 and #009 race numbers, Aston Martin will enter two Valkyries, powered by naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engines and featuring cutting-edge carbon fiber chassis, in WEC’s top Hypercar class. The Valkyrie will make its IMSA debut at the iconic 12 Hours of Sebring (March 12-14, 2025).
Tincknell’s Return
Harry Tincknell, a seasoned endurance racer, returns to Aston Martin after four years. His last stint with the brand saw him claim victory in the LMGTE Pro class at the 2020 24 Hours of Le Mans. Tincknell, who also won the 2016 European Le Mans Series and the 2020 12 Hours of Sebring, will pilot the #007 Valkyrie.
“It’s an absolute honor to return to Aston Martin for the Valkyrie program,” Tincknell shared. “The car’s design and the roaring V12 engine make it a fan favorite. Testing has been an incredible experience, and the DNA of the car feels strong. Everyone at Aston Martin THOR Team has welcomed me warmly, and I’m excited to represent this professional outfit on the global stage.”
Reflecting on his previous success, Tincknell added: “Le Mans 2020 was a dream moment, and the goal is to replicate that with the Valkyrie. This opportunity feels surreal, and I’m eager to make history once again.”
Riberas Steps Up
Alex Riberas, a longstanding member of The Heart of Racing team, transitions from the GT category to the Hypercar class, driving the #009 Valkyrie. Riberas earned his place in the top tier after a standout season with The Heart of Racing Aston Martin Vantage, securing victories in both WEC’s LMGT3 class and IMSA’s GTD Pro category.
“For me, joining the Valkyrie program is the pinnacle of endurance racing,” Riberas stated. “Having spent a decade with The Heart of Racing, this feels like a natural progression. Representing Aston Martin, a brand with such a rich history in motorsport and at Le Mans, is an honor. The Valkyrie is the most spectacular car I’ve ever driven, and I can’t wait to share its brilliance with motorsport fans worldwide.”
Leadership and Progress
Ian James, Team Principal of Aston Martin THOR Team, praised both drivers for their contributions during the Valkyrie’s testing phase. “Harry and Alex have shown the perfect mix of speed, patience, and dedication. They’ve earned their spots for 2025, and we’re excited to compete with this incredible machine. Aston Martin has a storied history in endurance racing, and we’re proud to bring the wings back to the forefront of the sport.”
The Valkyrie has logged over 12,500 kilometers in its development phase, including recent tests at the WEC Bahrain finale and Daytona’s IMSA Sanction test. With homologation looming, the team is focused on fine-tuning the car’s performance to ensure it meets the demands of top-tier competition.
Looking Ahead
Adam Carter, Aston Martin’s Head of Endurance Motorsport, emphasized the challenges and opportunities ahead. “The Valkyrie has met all development benchmarks, but racing is another level entirely. We respect the formidable competition in both WEC’s Hypercar class and IMSA’s GTP category. Harry and Alex are fully deserving of their roles, and we’re thrilled to see them shine next season. The return of the iconic #007 and #009 numbers adds another layer of excitement and nostalgia for our fans.”
The #009 number holds particular significance, as it adorned the Aston Martin DBR9 that achieved back-to-back GT1 class victories at Le Mans in 2007 and 2008.
Aston Martin THOR Team will reveal the complete driver lineup for the 2025 WEC and IMSA campaigns in the coming months, signaling the next chapter in the brand’s illustrious motorsport legacy.
