A post-race inspection has denied Audi their first win of the season after the #7 Audi R18 e-tron was found to be in violation of article 3.5.6 a3 of the LMP1 Technical Regulations that determines the thickness of the front skid block.
The car was excluded from the race, meaning both Audi R18s (#7 and #8) exited the season opener with zero points. Following that decision, the #2 Porsche 919 Hybrid moved up to first place and effectively claimed the first win of the season for Porsche, extending their winning streak from 2015. The #6 Toyota TS050 Hybrid assumed second place while LMP1 privateer team, Rebellion Racing claimed the first podium win of the season by finishing third.
Audi Sport has decided to appeal the decision, following the unfortunate exclusion from the race. A statement from the team read:
“Audi Sport Team Joest has appealed against the exclusion of winners Marcel Fassler/André Lotterer/Benoit Treluyer. Hence the result of the 2016 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season opener remains provisional,”
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