After a year-long hiatus, Aust Motorsport is making its return to the Prototype Cup Germany under the leadership of Frank Aust. The team will field a Ligier JS P320 with two new drivers, Sven Barth and Maxim Dirickx, sharing driving duties throughout the season.
“I’m really excited to be back in the Prototype Cup Germany after a one-year break,” says team principal Frank Aust, who kept in touch with the paddock during the team’s break in 2024. “The Prototype Cup Germany is a fantastic racing series that remains relatively affordable and has developed over the years. The ADAC and Creventic, who jointly organize the series, listen to the teams and take our opinions seriously. Only through this kind of collaboration can we grow and improve together.” Aust Motorsport used the time away from racing to further improve their Ligier, so they haven’t been idle during their break. “We worked with TRE to intensively develop our LMP3 car. I’m optimistic that we will return to the Prototype Cup Germany stronger than before.”
This season, Aust Motorsport will feature two drivers: 44-year-old German Sven Barth and 20-year-old Belgian Maxim Dirickx. Both drivers were already part of the Prototype Cup Germany in 2024, and they even started the season together at Gebhardt Motorsport. However, their paths diverged after the third race weekend. Barth and Dirickx’s best result together in 2024 was a fifth-place finish at the Dekra Lausitzring in a Duqueine D08.
“Sven brings the experience and know-how we need to succeed in this demanding series,” Frank Aust reflects on his driver lineup. “He has shown time and again in his career what he’s capable of. Maxim is a promising talent, though he may still lack some of the experience with the LMP3 car. After all, he came straight from karting into the Prototype Cup Germany a year ago, so he started with no experience in car racing.”
However, Aust remains confident in Dirickx’s potential, adding that the young Belgian will benefit from having the experienced Barth as his teammate. “We plan to test before the first race at Spa-Francorchamps, and I believe Maxim will be able to deliver a great season alongside Sven Barth.”
A Fresh Start and New Opportunities for Aust Motorsport
Aust Motorsport’s return after a year’s break is an exciting development for the Prototype Cup Germany. The team’s leadership has not only remained connected with the paddock but also used the time away productively to fine-tune their equipment and improve their car. Frank Aust’s emphasis on development with TRE indicates the team’s commitment to getting back on track with a competitive edge.
The choice of drivers is a fascinating one. Sven Barth, with his wealth of experience, is the perfect anchor for the team. His proven track record will help Aust Motorsport tackle the challenges of the Prototype Cup Germany with confidence. Maxim Dirickx, on the other hand, represents the next generation of talent. Though young and relatively new to the LMP3 category, his transition from karting to professional motorsport shows determination and ambition. The combination of Barth’s seasoned expertise and Dirickx’s youthful enthusiasm could make for a dynamic and successful pairing, especially as they aim to improve their performance from last season.
The Prototype Cup Germany is known for being a relatively affordable entry point into endurance racing, which makes it an appealing option for teams like Aust Motorsport. Frank Aust’s praise for the series’ organizers, ADAC and Creventic, highlights the collaborative atmosphere that drives its growth. The willingness to listen to teams and adjust accordingly is crucial for maintaining the competitive balance that keeps the series exciting for both drivers and fans.
Looking ahead, the team’s goals are clearly focused on making the most of their well-prepared car and experienced driver lineup. The upcoming test before the season opener at Spa-Francorchamps will be crucial for maximizing their chances of success. With a year of development behind them and a strong driver pairing, Aust Motorsport seems ready to make a big splash in the 2025 Prototype Cup Germany season.
For fans and participants alike, the return of Aust Motorsport is an exciting prospect. The blend of experience and new talent within the team will certainly make them a team to watch, and their goal of improving upon last season’s performances adds an extra layer of anticipation for what is sure to be an exciting and competitive season ahead.