HAAS RT 24h of Dubai Experience
The Caribbean islands of Antigua & Barbuda offer an unforgettable vacation experience. We’re known for Crystal clear blue waters, its’ vibrant culture as well as sporting events like sailing, track and field, swimming, Drag Racing and Rally Cross. But Endurance Racing on an international level? That was completely unexpected!
This was the vision of Sandrine Haas, co-founder of the Haas RT team, who has made Antigua and Barbuda her home and the inspiration for this new team. Sandrine who is originally from Belgium, has a deep rooted passion for the motorsports sector. Haas explains: “Antigua and Barbuda welcomed me; the people welcomed me, so it was an obvious choice to drive under these colours!” Unsurprisingly, Kris Dedoncker, Team Manager, and the rest of the team loved the idea.
On race day, Haas RT can be seen in their bright blue uniforms, reminiscent of the Caribbean Sea, adorned with the Antiguan flag. Its members are huge fans of the locally brewed English Harbour Antiguan rum, and they can be found enjoying soca music in the pit box on any given day.
The Haas RT team boasts 11 full-time members and up to three additional personnel when needed. Co-founders Sandrine Haas and Kris Dedoncker have assembled a staff of four mechanics, one tire man, two refuelers, two engineers, and one administrative personel.
Their race car, the Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evo II, was a timely acquisition after purchasing from Team WRT (out of Belgium), who recently transitioned to BMW. The Audi R8 symbolizes Haas RT’s love for Antigua and Barbuda, as its livery features a vivid blue, red, yellow, and black colour scheme with images of the island’s flag.
Driving the Audi R8 offers the team a distinct advantage, boasting a powerful 585-horsepower motor, rear-wheel drivetrain, cost-effective running costs, and impeccable customer service from Audi to, all enabling the team to remain on the race track.
Starting this successful racing team was no easy feat. Sandrine explains, “It takes craziness and quite a lot of nerves. It’s not only about a car and drivers, everything is important, all the little details… spare parts, tools, etc.” Haas shares, “We didn’t want a driver who’s good at breaking the car in the first wall he sees, and we needed an Amateur driver (AM/Bronze) who was fast.
Anyone can imagine that budget and sponsorship are also significant challenges for any new racing team, but luckily for Haas RT, their professional track record has made it easier to secure these. For instance, when their engine failed during the weekend practice of the Dubai 24HR race, they were able to rent one from Audi Sport Customer Service and replaced it overnight, allowing them to perform remarkably on race day. Haas advises, “The behind-the-scene work is huge. Everyone has to be really committed.”
At the 24H race in Dubai, the race commentators had to scramble to learn more about Antigua & Barbuda’s team, Haas RT, when they entered the race. They searched to find out where the country was located, how to say its name and what language was spoken there. The race promoters also had to produce an Antiguan Flag in a hurry so that Haas could be given due recognition when they made it to the podium. The notable presence of Haas RT in international motorsport racing is a remarkable story.
This small team has been turning heads in the endurance racing world since their impressive performance during the Dubai 24HR Race. With the fastest pitstop/drivers change of 22 seconds, Haas RT has proven their ability to stay ahead of the competition. Taking home the win at 2023’s 12H of Mugello only solidified their place as a top-tier team and with media coverage from countries around the globe, it’s no surprise that this small team has achieved a lot of attention in a short amount of time.
Haas RT announced their participation in the 25H of Spa in Belgium, where they will be racing two Fun Cups, which are Volkswagen Beetle replicas. Showcasing their commitment to Antigua and Barbuda, one of the cars will proudly be adorned with the country’s flag and colours.
Looking ahead, Haas RT is open to welcoming new partners and sponsors for the entire 24H Series. Team co-founder, Haas, had this to say: “Thanks to everyone who supports & follows us! Spread the word, follow us on Facebook & Instagram and let the world know where Antigua is!”
If you’re a fan of the team or thinking about becoming a sponsor, now is the perfect opportunity to follow (or join) this remarkable racing team from the Caribbean twin-island state. We believe the potential is too great to pass up.
