AO by TF will head to next month’s 24 Hours of Le Mans with a striking new identity as the reigning LMP2 Pro-Am winner prepares to defend its class crown. The team has unveiled a fresh livery for its Oreca 07 Gibson, introducing ‘Rockie the Pegasus’ as part of a new partnership with Mobil 1.
At the same time, the team has also confirmed a revised driver line-up for the famous endurance race, with Australian racer James Allen joining the squad.
New Pegasus character takes centre stage
After campaigning the fan-favourite ‘Spike the Dragon’ design earlier this season, AO by TF has now introduced a completely new character for Le Mans.
The team developed ‘Rockie the Pegasus’ in collaboration with Mobil 1, creating a distinctive identity specifically for the French endurance classic. According to the team, the new character combines elegance with aggression, matching the demanding nature of the 24-hour race.
“Her towering wings and small hooves appear poised for takeoff, ready to take flight,” a statement from the team read. “Flared nostrils and a focused expression give her an aggressive edge, accompanied by a flowing red mane and a sharp white blaze running down the bridge of her nose.”
Furthermore, the team confirmed that ExxonMobil Corporation and its subsidiaries have already registered ‘Rockie’ as a trademark.
AO by TF team targets another Le Mans triumph in 2026
AO by TF arrives at Le Mans carrying strong momentum after securing victory in the LMP2 Pro-Am category last year. Consequently, the team enters the 2026 edition with confidence as it aims to repeat that success.
Team principal Gunnar Jeannette highlighted both the competitive and creative significance of this year’s programme.
“It’s always exciting going back to Le Mans for the 24 hours, but this year is extra special,” said Jeanette. “First, returning as winners in the P2 Pro-Am category, but also introducing the world to the newest AO Character.”
“We’ve put a massive amount of effort into bringing Rockie to life, and we can’t wait to see how the fans across the globe react to meeting her at the best racing event of the year.”
James Allen joins revised driver line-up
Alongside the visual transformation, AO by TF has also adjusted its driver roster for Le Mans. PJ Hyett and Dane Cameron will remain with the team, while James Allen replaces Louis Deletraz in the line-up.
Delétraz will instead compete for Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA after the squad again called him up to substitute for Alex Lynn in the Cadillac V-Series.R Hypercar entry. As a result, Allen steps into one of the most competitive LMP2 seats on the grid. The Australian driver expressed enthusiasm about joining the defending class winners.
“AO have proven to be an exceptional team during their time in LMP2 and the results they have achieved in such a short time in the category speak for themselves,” said Allen. “I’m looking forward to working with Dane, PJ and everyone at the team with the goal of repeating their success at Le Mans from last year.”
Fresh identity, familiar ambition
Although AO by TF will race with a new look and an updated driver combination, the team’s objective remains unchanged. With ‘Rockie the Pegasus’ now ready for her debut and an experienced line-up in place, the reigning LMP2 Pro-Am winners will once again aim to leave a major mark on the world’s biggest endurance race.
