Aksel Kryhlmand
Her absence is felt, but morale within the squad remains intact.
Her absence is felt, but morale within the squad remains intact.
Sarah Bovy Steps In for Injured Gatting at Le Mans
Just days before the 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Iron Dames team has made a surprise driver change. Sarah Bovy will replace Michelle Gatting in the No. 85 Porsche 911 GT3 R after Gatting suffered a foot injury during Sunday’s test session.
Pit Stop Incident Sidelines Gatting
Gatting’s injury occurred during a routine pit stop driver change.
The Danish driver sustained foot fractures and, as confirmed by team operator Manthey, will be unable to compete in this weekend’s race.
The setback is a blow to the team’s momentum, but they remain in high spirits.
Recovery With Team Support
Despite the unfortunate timing, Gatting remains positive. The team’s official statement highlighted that she is focusing on recovery, with strong backing from both Iron Dames and Manthey Racing.
Her absence is felt, but morale within the squad remains intact.
Bovy’s Return to the WEC Grid
Bovy, 36, returns to Le Mans action as a last-minute substitute.
Although she hasn’t raced in this year’s FIA World Endurance Championship season, she brings ample experience, including four previous Le Mans appearances and a win in the 2023 8 Hours of Bahrain.
A Familiar Face Among the Dames
A member of the Iron Dames program since 2021, Bovy has taken on a more managerial and mentoring role this season following her upgrade to a Silver driver rating.
However, she’s no stranger to the No. 85 cockpit and is ready to jump back behind the wheel.
Joining Martin and Frey in the LMGT3 Class
Bovy will line up alongside Célia Martin and Rahel Frey in the LMGT3-class Porsche.
The trio now shoulders the responsibility of carrying the Iron Dames’ campaign forward in one of motorsport’s most grueling endurance races.
Solid Test Day Before the Shake-Up
Before Gatting’s injury, the team logged consistent laps during the Le Mans Test Day.
Martin, Frey, and Gatting posted a time of 3:59.615, placing them 21st in class.
Importantly, they avoided any on-track incidents, which is a key, heading into race week.
Track Familiarity Gives Bovy an Edge
Le Mans isn’t new territory for Bovy.
Her extensive knowledge of the circuit and prior experience under endurance racing pressure make her an ideal candidate to step in.
With the switch happening ahead of Wednesday’s free practice, she’ll have time to reacclimate.
Frey Highlights the Importance of Setup
Commenting on their test runs, Frey pointed out the need to adapt to the Porsche’s low-downforce configuration, a critical factor at the Circuit de la Sarthe.
That adaptation process will now include Bovy as she integrates with the car and her teammates.
A Resilient Team Faces a New Challenge
While the last minute change was unexpected, the Iron Dames remain undeterred.
With Bovy’s return, the team is banking on experience, determination, and teamwork to navigate the 93rd edition of the world’s most prestigious endurance race.