Akkodis opts for experience and youth as it finalises Lexus line-up
Akkodis ASP Team is the latest LMGT3 contender to confirm its full line-up for the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship campaign, favouring a blend of experience and youth in its two FIA Silver-graded drivers.
One of the pair is not new to the team. Following several seasons of competition in ADAC GT Masters and the GT World Challenge, Clemens Schmid contested three FIA WEC rounds last year in the Lexus RC F GT3, showcasing his rapid adaptation to the car by posting the fastest lap in-class in the second free practice session on his championship bow at Spa-Francorchamps.
Renowned for his consistency and race management skills, the 34-year-old Austrian will partner double world champion José María López and series rookie Petru Umbrarescu in the French outfit’s #87 entry.
“I’m incredibly excited for the 2025 season!” enthused Schmid. “Competing at Le Mans has always been a dream of mine, and it is truly a privilege to bring this dream to life with such a successful and professional team as Akkodis ASP and a top-tier manufacturer like Lexus. With our outstanding line-up, I am confident we have everything it takes to fight for top positions and be at the very front of the field.”
In the sister #78 car alongside Ben Barnicoat and Arnold Robin, Finn Gehrsitz will make his FIA WEC debut. Having first piloted a prototype at the age of just 16, the German went on to make history as the youngest pole-sitter in the Michelin Le Mans Cup in 2021, and has additionally tackled both the European and Asian Le Mans Series’. He spent 2024 participating in the GT World Challenge Asia.
“I’m very excited to join the experienced Akkodis ASP Team and represent Lexus in FIA WEC,” commented Gehrsitz, now 20. “This is a big moment in my career and the fulfillment of a dream I’ve been working towards for many years. For me, motorsport has always been about passion, dedication and pushing the limits, and I’m ready to give everything to make this season a success.
“I believe in the strength of this team and the great potential we have together. FIA WEC is one of the toughest challenges in racing, but I feel more prepared than ever. I’m motivated, focused and can’t wait to start this journey. It’s an exciting step, and I’m determined to make the most of it!”
