Brandon McCaughan. (Image: Jakob Ebrey Photography)
Motorsport rising star Brandon McCaughan is set for an exciting return to racing this week as he makes his prototype competition debut in the final round of the 2024 Ligier European Series season at Portimão (17-18 October).
Following on from his sensational spell in the GB4 Championship earlier this year, in which he scored two wins and four podium finishes, the Northern Irishman will embark on a new challenge this weekend as he travels to Portugal to compete overseas for the first time.
McCaughan is linking up with leading squad Team Virage for his debut in the Ligier European Series.
The hugely-experienced Spanish outfit are the current leaders in both the teams’ and drivers’ standings, having won both titles in each of the last two seasons.
Image: Ligier European Series.
The Ballymena-based racer will be getting behind the wheel of a Ligier JS P4 this weekend. The entry-level sports prototype, which features a closed cockpit and carbon monocoque, is powered by a 3.7 litre V6 Ford engine and has a six-speed paddle-shift gearbox.
McCaughan, who has previously enjoyed two successful seasons in the BRSCC National Formula Ford Championship, has enjoyed a couple of productive test days in a Ligier JS P4 and is ready to hit the ground running this weekend in the #32 car, which he’ll share with Danish racer Mikkel Pedersen.
This opportunity, which will see him race on the support package of the European Le Mans Series, has come thanks to the crucial support of McCaughan’s loyal partners; Mulholland Scrap Metals, Raceview, ADM Group, AAA Biomass, DMMF Services, MacPac Refuse Bodies and Bovill Lead Ltd.
Image: Ligier European Series.
Brandon McCaughan said:
“This is the opportunity of a lifetime. To get the chance to experience my first prototype racing in such a great championship, on such a brilliant circuit, is amazing and I am determined to make the most of this.
“Although I’ve had limited experience in these cars, my two test days with Team Virage were very promising and my performances earnt me this chance. It's a steep learning curve and I’ll have a lot to learn in a short space of time, but I’m hoping to adapt quickly and reward the team’s faith in me.
“I’m feeling very positive going into this event and I’m confident we can go and challenge for some good results. I can’t thank Team Virage and my amazing group of partners enough for making this happen on such short notice.”
The Portimão race week consists of two free practice sessions and two qualifying sessions on Thursday (17 October), before a pair of one-hour races on Friday (18 October) at 09:00 and 13:30 local time.
The races will be streamed live on the Ligier European Series’ YouTube channel.