Tragic Accident Claims Life of Team Manager Gerhard Freundorfer in Barcelona
The motorsport community is mourning the loss of team manager Gerhard Freundorfer, who succumbed to fatal injuries after an incident in the paddock at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on Tuesday. The incident occurred during preparations for the opening round of the Michelin Le Mans Cup while Freundorfer was involved with one of the Proton Huber trucks.
Circuit Staff Attends to Freundorfer, But Injuries Prove Fatal
Circuit medical staff swiftly provided assistance to Freundorfer, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. Neither the Le Mans Cup, Barcelona circuit, nor the European Le Mans Series, which is also holding its first race of 2024 at the Spanish venue this weekend, have released further details.
Industry and Circuit Officials Express Condolences
Josep Lluís Santamaría, managing director of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, conveyed deep sorrow and extended condolences to Freundorfer’s family, friends, and the entire endurance racing paddock.
The President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, Pierre Fillon, expressed sadness at the news, stating that Freundorfer’s passing has deeply affected everyone involved in endurance racing.
Proton Huber’s Le Mans Cup Participation Unchanged
Proton Huber had entered a single Porsche 911 GT3 R for Jorg Dreiso and Manuel Lauck in the GT3 class for the 2024 Le Mans Cup. The team is a joint venture between Christian Ried and Christopher Huber, and was formed to compete in Porsche one-make series.
Currently, no changes are anticipated for this weekend’s 4 Hours of Barcelona, which will also feature races in the Le Mans Cup, Ligier Euro Series, and Porsche Carrera Cup France categories.
- “This morning we woke to the news of the death of Gerhard Freundorfer, which has saddened everyone involved in endurance racing.” – Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest
- “On behalf of the whole endurance family I would like to extend all of our deepest condolences to the family of Gerhard Freundorfer.” – Frédéric Lequien, CEO of Le Mans Endurance Management
- “Gerhard was a member of the endurance family, and he will be sadly missed by all.” – Josep Lluís Santamaría, managing director of Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
Gerhard Freundorfer’s untimely demise is a tragic loss for the motorsport community. His contributions to endurance racing will be remembered, and his memory will be honored in the hearts of those who knew him.