Isotta Fraschini Now Targeting Bahrain Race Debut

Isotta Fraschini have recast their test, development and homologation programme with the Italian manufacturer now seeking a race debut at the 2023 season finale in Bahrain in November.

Before that the Michelotto-led test programme for the Isotta Fraschini Tipo 6 LMH Competizione will move to Monza on 16 & 17 May with test driver Marco Bonanomi.

A revised testing timetable has seen a decision taken to defer the homologation of the car until the maximum possible amount of testing and development has been undertaken.

The homologation process with the FIA/ACO includes a wind tunnel test and analysis of the car with relative data files at the FIA technical center in Valleiry (France) as well as a further test on the centre of gravity of the car. The Tipo 6 LMH Competizione will then continue its development programme with tests at several different European circuits, before being ready in October 2023 for the final homologation process.

That timeframe means that both Monza (already effectively counted out) and Fuji (in September) are outside the currently planned homologation ‘window’.

DSC understands that the programme has been liaising with the FIA, ACO and LMEM about the potential for a one-off appearance at the 2023 WEC season finale at Bahrain International Circuit in early November, the race programme set to be undertaken in conjunction with current WEC LMP2 squad vector Sport.

Alongside the test programme though there looks likely to be an opportunity for the WEC paddock and fans to get a closer look at the car at Monza’s post Le Mans race meeting on 9 July.

Isotta Fraschini intend to present the car there with the race car alongside the first Tipo 6 Pista “Track Day” car. A ‘dynamic’ debut display run on track is rumoured but not confirmed.