What Is WEC? ELI5 Explanation For Beginners
source: www.ironlynx.com
The World Endurance Championship (WEC) is an unique form of car racing that stands out for its marathon-like races and diverse competition. Unlike typical car races that last only a short time, WEC races can last from six hours to an entire day and night, making it a true test of endurance for both drivers and cars, which is why it’s called WEC - World Endurance Championship.
The WEC features different types of cars racing together on the same track. In the 2024 season, there are two main categories: Hypercars and LMGT3 cars.
Hypercars are the fastest and most advanced cars in the race, often built by major car manufacturers to showcase their latest technology.
On the other hand, LMGT3 cars are more like the high-end sports cars you might see on the street, though they are modified for racing. These races include both professional drivers and amateur drivers, adding to the variety and excitement of the competition.
Despite the different types of cars, all the cars race together, making it seem like there are multiple races happening simultaneously on the same track.
Each type of car competes to be the best in its own category, but they must also navigate the presence of cars from other categories, which adds to the challenge.
To ensure fair competition, the WEC uses a system called Balance of Performance (BoP). This system adjusts the performance of the cars by adding weight to the fastest cars or reducing their power. The goal is to make sure that no single car has an overwhelming advantage, which keeps the races exciting and competitive.
This system helps prevent any one team from dominating the races purely through superior technology and ensures that skill and strategy play significant roles in winning.
The winners in WEC races are determined not just by speed but also by strategy and endurance. Points are awarded based on how well each car performs in the race, and longer races offer more points.
For instance, the 24-hour race gives double the points compared to a six-hour race. These points are crucial in deciding the overall champions at the end of the season.
For those new to WEC, a great way to understand the sport is by watching race replays available on the WEC YouTube channel. Races like those at Spa, Monza, Fuji, and especially the 24 Hours of Le Mans, are excellent starting points.
Watching these races will give you a sense of the endurance, strategy, and variety that make WEC such a fascinating motorsport.
