Nissan has recruited Harry Tincknell, Olivier Pla and reigning Super GT champion Tsugio Matsuda for its LMP1 sportscar program.
The trio, who have come from within the Japanese manufacturer’s resources, will join the already confirmed Marc Gene as part of the squad’s nine driver effort.
British driver Tincknell joins the factory LMP1 squad after finishing as the runner-up in the European Le Mans series.
The 23-year-old former single seater ace will pilot one of Nissan’s entries in the FIA World Endurance Championship this season.
Pla joins Tincknell in a full-time FIA WEC seat with the Frenchman bringing a wealth of LMP2 prototype experience to the outfit.
Matsuda built his motor racing career in Japan in the popular Super GT category, which he won last season.
“We chose to look within the Nissan family to find drivers who have done a great job for us and provide a good mixture of youth and experience,” said Darren Cox, Global Head of Brand, Marketing & Sales, NISMO.
“Matsuda needs little introduction as he is the reigning Super GT Champion. Harry and Oli stood out for their professional performances alongside our NISMO Athletes in Nissan-powered LM P2 cars.
“They are great endurance racers and it is a pleasure to welcome them into LMP1 as it is also a pleasure for us to now be in a position where we can take our own global talent and take them all the way to the top.”
Nissan will announce its pairings once all nine of its drivers have been confirmed.
The manufacturer did however reveal the numbers its LMP1 machines will carry.
The FIA WEC entries will sport #22 and #23 while the third entry for the Le Mans 24 Hours will display #21.
VIDEO: Learn more about Olivier Pla
VIDEO: Learn more about Harry Tincknell
VIDEO: Learn more about Tsugio Matsuda
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