BMW M Team WRT earns dual podium finishes at Imola FIA WEC round

BMW takes second in both Hypercar and LMGT3 classes at FIA WEC Imola with bold tactics and comeback drives. See how strategy shaped the race.

The second round of the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) at Imola turned into a strategic triumph for BMW M Team WRT. In a high-stakes six-hour race, the Bavarian manufacturer clinched two podiums — in the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes — despite a series of incidents, technical setbacks, and penalties.

The star of the day was the #20 BMW M Hybrid V8. Driven by Robin Frijns, René Rast, and Sheldon van der Linde, the car started from 13th place but rose through the field thanks to sharp tactics and flawless teamwork. After a collision and a swift rear-wing repair, the odds were stacked against them. However, a shortened penultimate pit stop and van der Linde’s qualifying-pace push allowed BMW to gain crucial track position and contend for the lead — their first-ever FIA WEC podium.

The drama continued in the LMGT3 class, where the #46 BMW M4 GT3 EVO — with Ahmad Al Harthy, Valentino Rossi, and Kelvin van der Linde — led for much of the race from pole. A stop-and-go penalty following Rossi’s contact with a Ferrari jeopardized their chances, but van der Linde staged a stunning comeback to challenge the leading Porsche in the closing laps, ultimately finishing second.

It was a less fortunate outing for the #15 BMW M Hybrid V8, which fell back to sixth after struggling with performance issues late in the race. Meanwhile, the #31 BMW M4 GT3 EVO dropped to 12th after multiple incidents, despite having climbed to second place mid-race.

Still, a double podium at Imola sends a clear message. Ferrari may have won, but BMW’s performance signals a fierce battle ahead in the championship. All eyes now turn to Spa-Francorchamps on May 10, where BMW will aim to convert momentum into victory.

Source: bmwgroup.com