Inter Europol Competition will welcome Nick Yelloly to the team for the upcoming European Le Mans season, partnering with Tom Dillmann and Kuba Smiechowski in what looks to be a strong contender for the overall championship.
The British driver made his ELMS debut last year with Nielsen Racing, competing in the final three races of the season alongside John Falb and Colin Noble, securing a podium finish in Portugal.
The 34-year-old from Solihull has an impressive CV which includes 2018 Porsche Mobile 1 Supercup Vice Champion, 2019 China GT Champion, 2020 24 Hours of Nürburgring SP9 Champion and 2023 GT World Challenge Vice Champion.Yelloly now has his sights set on another title, this time the ELMS LMP2 title with 24 Hours of Le Mans LMP2 champions Inter Europol Competition.
Q) What are your thoughts on the ELMS?
"This will be my first full season in the ELMS Championship. Last year, I participated in the last three rounds, and I found it to be a great experience. I believe the competition gets stronger each year, featuring fantastic drivers and teams. I am really looking forward to the upcoming season."
Q) Last year you competed on the same grid as Inter Europol Competition in the IMSA championship racing a Hypercar, how do you compare the LMP2 and the Hypercar?
"The Hypercars are primarily manufacturer-based and feature hybrid technology, making them quite complex, especially from within the cockpit. In contrast, LMP2 cars are lighter, quicker through corners, and more efficient on the breaks, while Hypercars excel in straight-line speed."
"The simplicity of the LMP2 cars leads to close and competitive racing throughout the grid."
Q)As you are an Aston Martin Formula 1 development and simulator driver, you've had the privilege of driving the current Formula 1 machinery, what differs between top level single seater and top level prototype?
"There isn't a significant difference in how you drive both cars, but the Formula One car is considerably faster, typically completing laps 15-20 seconds quicker.
“In a sports car, drivers must adapt their driving style throughout the stints as you are not changing tyres, and the fuel loads remain heavy throughout the race. This requires a different approach to maximise performance in both cars. In contrast, the Formula One car demands a smooth and precise driving style, with high commitment through high-speed due to its exceptional grip."
Q) What races are you most looking forward to this year returning to European tracks that you last competed on in single seaters as a developing young driver?
"I am looking forward to Silverstone, as I have not raced there for a long time now, I also look forward to Le Mans and Imola, there is nothing better than driving an LMP2 car around Spa."
