Earl Bamber

Earl Anderson Bamber (born 9 July 1990) is a New Zealand professional racing driver and racing team owner who currently competes in the IMSA SportsCar Championship and the FIA World Endurance Championship for Cadillac Hertz Team Jota and Cadillac Whelen. He is a factory driver for Corvette Racing, having previously driven in a factory capacity for Porsche. Bamber is a two-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, having won in 2015 alongside Nico Hülkenberg and Nick Tandy and in 2017 with Timo Bernhard and Brendon Hartley. He also became overall champion of the 2017 FIA World Endurance Championship alongside the latter trio. Bamber also won the IMSA SportsCar Championship in the GTLM class in 2019, as well as the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2023. Prior to his endurance racing career, he was champion of the 2014 Porsche Supercup and won the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia twice in 2013 and 2014.
Full Name:
Earl Anderson Bamber
Birthday:
9 July 1990
Birthplace:
Whanganui, New Zealand
Profession:
Race Car Driver
Gender:
Male
Parents:
Paul Bamber (Father), Maureen Bamber (née Johnson) (Mother)
Awards:
Lady Wigram Trophy (Win Year 2008)
Notable Achievements:
24 Hours of Le Mans (Race Win Year 2015, 2017), IMSA SportsCar Championship (Race Win Year 2019), Nürburgring 24 Hours (Race Win Year 2023),
Previous Team:
Porsche North America (From 2014, To 2017), Porsche Team (From 2015, To 2017), Nexus Racing (From 2013, To 2014)

Earl Bamber Bio

Early Life and Background

Earl Anderson Bamber was born on July 9, 1990, in Whanganui, New Zealand, to Paul and Maureen Bamber. Growing up on a farm, he learned to drive in the small settlement of Jerusalem on the Whanganui River. He attended Wanganui Collegiate School, where he began his journey in motorsports, starting with kart racing. Bamber won his first title at the age of 12 at the North Island Sprint Championships and later secured a national title at the 2004 Sprint Kart Championship in Auckland.

Bamber’s early success in karting led him to compete internationally, where he achieved a podium finish at the Rotax Max category’s annual Grand Final in Portugal. His early exposure to racing laid the foundation for a successful career in motorsports.

Path to IMSA SportsCar Championship

Bamber progressed through various racing series, including the New Zealand Formula Ford Championship and Asian Formula BMW, where he won the title. His performance in single-seater racing earned him recognition, and he was ranked as one of the top future stars by driverdb.com in 2008. He continued to excel in multiple series, including the A1 Grand Prix and GP2 Asia, showcasing his versatility and skill.

In 2013, Bamber made his debut in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia, where he won the drivers’ championship. His success in endurance racing began with a victory in the Bathurst 12 Hour, which led to opportunities with Porsche Motorsport, ultimately paving his way to the IMSA SportsCar Championship and the FIA World Endurance Championship.

Earl Bamber Career

Early Career (2014-2016)

Bamber’s professional career began in 2014 when he joined Porsche North America, competing in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. He quickly made a name for himself, achieving notable results, including podium finishes and a strong performance in the GT Le Mans class. His first significant achievement came in 2015 when he joined the Porsche LMP team, contributing to their success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where he secured his first victory.

In 2016, Bamber continued to race for Porsche, participating in both the IMSA and World Endurance Championships. His consistent performances solidified his reputation as a talented driver in endurance racing.

IMSA SportsCar Championship Breakthrough (2017-2019)

Bamber’s breakthrough came in 2017 when he won his second 24 Hours of Le Mans, this time alongside Timo Bernhard and Brendon Hartley. This victory not only marked a significant milestone in his career but also contributed to him becoming the overall champion of the FIA World Endurance Championship that year. In 2019, he won the IMSA SportsCar Championship in the GTLM class, further establishing his credentials in the sport.

Current Team Era (2020-Present)

Bamber currently competes for Cadillac Hertz Team Jota in the IMSA SportsCar Championship and the FIA World Endurance Championship. His transition to Cadillac has been marked by competitive performances, including a victory at the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2023. Bamber’s adaptability and skill have made him a key driver for the team, contributing to their success in various endurance races.

Race Car Driver Style and Strengths

Bamber is known for his strategic approach to racing, combining technical skill with a keen understanding of race dynamics. His experience across multiple racing formats, including GT and prototype racing, allows him to excel in endurance events, where consistency and adaptability are crucial.

Notable Achievements and Milestones

Bamber’s career is highlighted by his two victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and his championship win in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. His dramatic moments include overcoming challenges in high-pressure situations, showcasing his resilience and determination.

Earl Bamber Career Wins

Earl Bamber has achieved significant success in various racing series, with notable wins including:
– 24 Hours of Le Mans (2015, 2017)
– IMSA SportsCar Championship (2019)
– Nürburgring 24 Hours (2023)

Current IMSA SportsCar Championship Highlights

As of the 2025 season, Bamber has secured multiple wins in the IMSA SportsCar Championship, showcasing his prowess in the GTP class. His first win in the series came in 2015, and he has continued to be a competitive force, contributing to his team’s success in the championship.

Previous FIA World Endurance Championship Achievements

Bamber’s achievements in the FIA World Endurance Championship include his two wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and his overall championship title in 2017. His performances have consistently placed him among the top drivers in endurance racing.

Earl Bamber Family

Family Background and Racing Lineage

Earl Bamber comes from a supportive family, with both parents actively involved in his early racing career. His father, Paul Bamber, played a significant role in fostering his interest in motorsports, which has been a driving force in Earl’s success.

Personal Life

Details about Bamber’s personal life remain private, but his dedication to racing and his family background are well-known aspects of his journey in motorsports.

2025 Season Performance

The 2025 season has been a promising year for Earl Bamber as he competes in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. His performances have been marked by strong finishes and competitive racing, positioning him as a key contender in the championship. As the season progresses, Bamber aims to build on his previous successes and continue to challenge for top honors in endurance racing.