Highcroft targets LMP2 victory on debut

The reigning ALMS LMP1 champion team has entered this year's 24 Hours and will have David Brabham, who won last year's race with Peugeot, behind the wheel of its Acura ARX-01c.

"Even though we earned an LMP1 entry after winning the ALMS, given the fact that a petrol-powered car can't really compete against diesels at Le Mans, it made sense for us to take our current chassis and contest LMP2," said Dayton.

"This will be our first flyaway frace, our first time in Europe and our first time at Le Mans, so we have a lot to learn. We're not under any false pretences regarding the size of the challenge ahead.

"Tackling an LMP1 victory at Le Mans was not realistic for us this year, but we're very keen to challenge for the LMP2 win.

"We're going to have to earn it, work very hard and be a quick study, because most of the competitors have been there before."

Dayton has raced at Le Mans himself, as have Highcroft drivers Brabham, Simon Pagenaud and Marino Franchitti, but he believes it will still be a unique challenge for the team.

"While our drivers have been to Le Mans and I've raced there four times, only a handful of our crew guys have done the race, so we will be on a steep learning curve. But to go to Le Mans with the reigning winner of the 24 Hours is a remarkable opportunity. You couldn't pick a better man to lead your team at the 24 Hours for the first time.

"Getting an entry for Le Mans is extremely satisfying. It's something we've wanted to do for a long time and we are very proud of the fact we are invited to France."