Aston Martin Valkyrie solidifies front-running pace as THOR charges in WEC

Aston Martin is rapidly turning its road car-derived Valkyrie into a formidable force at the sharp end of the FIA World Endurance Championship. When the machine debuted at last season’s Qatar 1812km, it languished over three seconds adrift in qualifying and failed to register a single point across its first six races. Fast forward to 2026, and the British challenger has transformed into a regular podium threat.

From Development Struggles to Front-Running Pace

The momentum peaked at Circuit of The Americas, where the car led two practice sessions, secured a second-row Hyperpole slot, and finished fourth.

“This result was another example of the progress we continue to make in understanding Valkyrie,” said Aston Martin Head of Endurance, Adam Carter. “The team delivered an exceptional performance and a podium position was tantalisingly close.”

Carter acknowledged the steep learning curve against rivals with far more accumulated data, adding that Aston Martin will push hard through 2026 while evaluating upgrades for 2027.

Texas Triumph: Double LMGT3 Rostrum

Team Principal Ian James praised the Valkyrie’s rapid ascent: “To finish just a couple of seconds away from the podium was a spectacular performance. It shows how much progress we continue to make with this car and team... after only 18 months.”

James also played an active driving role in Austin, piloting the #27 Heart of Racing Team Vantage AMR alongside Mattia Drudi and Zacharie Robichon to victory in the LMGT3 class. The sister #23 Vantage of Gray Newell, Eduardo Barrichello, and Jonny Adam converted pole position into third place, sealing Aston Martin’s maiden double podium in the class.

Aston Martin now heads into the final three rounds locked in a battle with Alpine for fifth in the Manufacturers’ standings, with Tincknell and Gamble closing on the Drivers’ top ten.