Van Overbeek breaks rib, ESM names Silverstone replacement

As Extreme Speed Motorsports plans for their full-time endeavor into the World Endurance Championship, ranging from the cars to now, the drivers.

Johannes van Overbeek, who was scheduled to pilot the No. 31 HPD ARX-03b (previously planned to be 04b) with co-drivers Ed Brown and Jon Fogarty. However, the American has suffered a broken rib in a coughing fit and will be unable to take part in the WEC season-opener.

Brabham named sub

Australian David Brabham, who was rattled but otherwise okay after a wreck in Bathurst 12 Hours, will stand in for the injured van Overbeek, taking his famous family name to ESM. He raced with the team in the 6 Hours of Shanghai last year and took part in the 6 Hours of Silverstone with JRM, back in 2012.

“It was quite a surprise to get a call this close to the race,” said Brabham. “Scott explained the situation, and I feel for Johannes after having my own rib injury a couple of months ago racing in Australia. I know how much pain he is in. I’m honored to have been called up to help out Tequila Patrón ESM here at Silverstone, which isn’t that far from where I live. I’ll do the best I can this weekend. I’m back in racing form since my accident and have been training frequently. I’m looking forward to driving with Ed again, and we’ll start the Tequila Patrón ESM WEC season off on the right foot.”