P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Gounon replaces Habsburg for Alpine Hypercar debut at Imola’s WEC round
Jules Gounon, a two-time GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup title winner with Mercedes, has stepped in to replace Ferdinand Habsburg at Alpine’s #35 A424 LMDh alongside Charles Milesi and Paul-Loup. Habsburg suffered two fractured vertebrae during an endurance test in March, ruling him out for at least the second round of the 2024 WEC. Alpine team principal Philippe Sinault expressed confidence in Gounon’s abilities but acknowledged his need for further learning. Habsburg’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, with Alpine not indicating if he will be fit for the third round at Spa in May. Despite the unexpected circumstances, Alpine is focused on gathering data and improving performance at the upcoming Imola 6 Hours race.
