Dick Barbour steps up to prototypes for 2001

After a 20-year absence, Dick Barbour managed to secure semi-works status from Porsche for his return to sportscar racing last year and the two-car squad dominated the GT class taking nine wins in 12 races, with the Dirk Muller and Lucas Luhr car taking overall honours.

The Road Atlanta-based team have switched to prototypes for 2001 - leaving the Porsche works status to the Alex Job Racing outfit - and will run a Reynard 01Q/Judd in the lighter of the two ALMS prototype classes.

"It is a logical progression for both me and my team," said Barbour. "As in the past, I'm happy to once again compete for overall victories. I'm anxious to flex my team's muscles so to speak."

Due to the lateness of the deal, the team, which is to run two cars, will not start its 2001 campaign until the British round of the championship at Donington in April. The lead car will be driven by Didier de Radigues, who drove for the Rafanelli team last year, with an, as yet, unknown team mate. A second car will also be fielded for little-known Venezuelan Milka Duno and Canadian John Graham.

"I couldn't be more pleased with the way the 2001 season is evolving," said Barbour. "To team up with both Reynard and Judd is like a racer's dream come true."