2025 Le Mans LMGT3 Postscript

As move over Jacky Ickx, Thars’ a new six times class winner!

 

According to Daily sports Car’s post race report, the No. 92 Manthey 1st Form Porsche 911GT3 R claimed a dominating victory over the second place No. 21 Vista AF Corse Ferrari 296 GT3.

 

Hurriedly scribbling sometime during the final 90mins, the No. 92 led last portion of race, winning LMGT3 for second year in-a-row. Jotting down the finishing order below, presumably during the final hourly update.

 

LMGT3: #92-21-81-27-87-90

 

Seeing the aforementioned first two finishers followed by TF Sport’s Chevrolet Corvette Z06.R; Heart of Racing Team’s Aston Martin Vantage; Akkodis Asp’s Lexus RC F and the second Manthey Porsche 911 R. (992 model)

 

Whilst I simply couldn’t resist the quote from Richard Lietz, part of Manthey’s winning driver trio.

 

“First of all, you have to be very old to be able to win six times! I am lucky enough to be here for the 19th time with Porsche, always as a factory driver. And basically every year since 2007, it has been really good to me.”

 

“Le Mans with six victories is incredible. And it’s the first time back-to-back. Manthey last year trusted me: I was kind of at the end of my driver career, towards the end, and I was thinking of stopping, and then they said, like, I have to come back. So now, two years later, two more Le Mans victories.”

(Source: dailysportscar.com)

 

Lietz’s six class victories at Circuit de la Sarthe were in  2007, 2010, 2013, 2022, 2024-2025. Being joined this year by Ryan Hardwick and Riccardo Pera, being familiar with Lietz and Hardwick’s names. As Hardwick came upon my radar when winning the 2022 Rolex 24 GTD class for Wright Motorsports.

 

Whilst I was unaware that He’d won the 2023 European Le Mans Series (ELMS) LMGTE and 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) LMGT3 class titles.

 

Funniest bit is Lietz’s quip about having to be really old to win so many times, with Hardwick being some three years, two weeks older if I’ve done my ryth-huh-tickin’ correctly? (Hardwick’s currently 45 years old) With Pera being the young whippersnapper of this trio at just 26.

 

Another name I recognized was Charlie Eastwood, who finished third aboard the TF Sport Corvette, who also competes for EXDT Racing in IMSA GTD competition.

 

While I’ve long been a fan of The Heart of Racing Team since it’s Team Seattle days supporting Seattle’s Childrens Hospital, spearheaded by Ian James. Although now based in Phoenix, AZ and having switched from Porsche 911’s to becoming Aston Martin’s Werks Hypercar operation in both the WEC and IMSA GTP.

 

The No. 27 Aston Martin Vantage started on pole, but James and Zacharie Robichon, both longtime IMSA competitors were part of the car finishing fourth, along with Mattia Drudi. As Robichon won the 2021 IMSA GTD championship for Pfaff Motorsports.

 

Ironically, just discovering that Robichon was part of that 2022 Wright Motorsports Rolex 24 GTD class winning quartet ‘O drivers. Alongside Hardwick, Lietz and Jan Van Hagar’ Heylen.

 

Although I know the name of the French Lexus race team, since I struggle on their spelling. Guessing fifth place is about what to expect from the long in the tooth Lexus racecar, with 2026 being its final season.

 

As I’m guessing that LMGT3 was largely overlooked, due to the excitement of the late LMP2 antics, and everybody focused upon that bright yellow No. 83 Ferrari 499P winning overall.

 

While are we really surprised it was another Porsche v Ferrari battle in LMGT3… 

Target Boyz’ reunion with Marshall Pruett

A gracious Alex Zanardi greats a star-struck Tomaso at Mother speedway on Carb Day.

(The Tomaso Collection)

 

The world is a sadder place without Alex Zanardi!

 

The seas ‘O synchronicity have struck thoust Isle ‘O Nofendersville again Ah-Mighty!

 

Sometime between the Long Beach IndyCar race and Indy 500 Open test. I tried inquiring upon Zed Intrawoods’ about Marshall Pruet interviewing Top Jimmy’, ergo Jimmy Vasser that weekend?

 

Having heard IndyCar Radio pit reporter Ryan Marin interviewing Vasser over being re-united with His 1996 Long Beach Target chip Ganassi Racing Reynard 96i Honda HRH winner.

 

With Jimmy saying He hadn’t put a leg over a cockpit in quite awhile! And I swear I heard Vasser say something about the reunion involving Marshall Pruett. Being the 30th anniversary of His Long Beach victory…

 

Hence, although I didn’t find anything about this, I did run into a fantastic 38 minutes video from seven years ago. When Marshall got Vasser, Alex Zanardi and Mike Hull to sit together and reminisce about those Glory Dazes during the 2019 24 Hours of Daytona.

 

Having totally forgotten that Zanardi had raced in that year’s Rolex 24 in a specially adapted Hand controls No. 24 BMW M8 GTE BMW Team RLL entry. Racing with John Edwards, Chad Moster and Jesse Kroh to a ninth place finish in the GTLM category.

 

It’s a fantastic interview with lots of laughs and absolutely worth listening to!

 

VIDEO: Target Ganassi IndyCar reunion with Alex Zanardi, Jimmy Vasser and Mike Hull

 

Then karmically, having just put the finishing touches on my No Fenders story including Alex Zanardi never getting to race at Mother Speedway the very same day He unexpectedly died at age 59.

 

Opening my email Saturday morning, I learned that El Zorro was gone, saying Oh Fuck!

 

As I’ll never forget that day at Mother Speedway when He graciously walked across the racetrack to “Meet ‘n Greet” Mwah to my astonishment!

 

Alex Zanardi: 1966-2026

 

While here’s another interview of Alex on Late Night with David Letterman following the 2014 Ironman triathlon in Hawaii. Which exudes all of the typical Zanardi charisma, charm, humor and humility which made Him a Hero for Mwah!

 

Nonchalantly describing seeing a female spectator had tears flowing down Her cheeks over Alex’s grit ‘n determination to persevere in the Triathlon. Noting actually, He was just sweating profusely because His gloves were slipping on the wheelchair’s wheels when trying to go uphill, and He wasn’t crying…

 

VIDEO: Alex Zanardi on Late Night with David Letterman

 

Salute Alex! 

ROLEX 24: Who’ll be joining the Winners Club this year?

And who’ll be sportin’ a shiny, new Rolex wristwatch?

 

By my unofficial timepiece, we’ve just passed the one-quarter mark of this year’s Rolex 24. And like year’s past, I began wonderin’ who had the most winners wristwatches in the race?

 

Leading the charge aboard the No. 60 Meyer Shank Racing Acura ARX-06, is Scotty thee Iceman 2.0’ Dixon, with three Rolex watches. Having won in 2006, 2015 and 2020.

 

As Dixon is the only three times overall winner in this year’s field, and would join a very select company of five Four-times winners.

 

I say only Three-times winner, since my unofficial records claim only 10 drivers have done so, excluding the two Five-times (Hurley Haywood, Scott Pruett) and three Four-times overall winners. (Peter Gregg, Rolf Stommelen and Bob Wollek)

 

Nipping at Dixon’s heels, are a six-pack of Two-times winners. With Jordan Taylor getting Thar first, i.e.; 2017, 2019.

 

Renger van der Zande, (2019-20) Ricky Taylor, (2017, 2021) Filipe Albuquerque, (2018, 2021) Tom Blonqvist (2022-23) and our newest member, Felipe Nasr. (2024-25)

 

As Nasr and Porsche Penske Motorsports are seeking their own Three-peat this weekend; which would also be the team’s No. 7’s third victory. Or will somebody stop them?

 

And then there’s three competitors trying to earn a second Rolex for their other wrist. With the likes of A.J. Allmendinger (2012) Matt Campbell (2024) and Laurens Vanthoor. (2025) But the odds are against the latter two Porsche Penske Motorsports chauffeurs, since they’re both part of the No. 6 entry.

 

As I’ve only attempted chronicling drivers competing in the IMSA GTP ranks, since Thars’ far too many other overall winners floating round the other categories, and I’m guaranteed to miss somebody…

 

For more riveting No Fenders Rolex 24 trivia, Y’all may wish to check out the following link below.

 

ROLEX 24: Trivial Pursuit, Old and New 

ROLEX 24: GTP preview, Can Porsche “Three-peat” this January?

As we’ll All find out in another 24 hours…

 

All of the IMSA GTP prototypes have been upgraded this year, most extensively the BMW, in hopes of dethroning Porsche. Which I’ll leave to Racer to do the “Heavy” lifting…

 

Manufacturers prepare revised GTP cars for IMSA Daytona test

 

The above article was posted on Racer.com, which refuses to update its website to comply with current Web Content Accessibility Guideline standards. Specifically WCAG 2.2 to enable ease of access for Blind or Visually Impaired readers.

 

BMW

BMW M Hybrid V-8

Engine: 4.0-litre V-8 Twin Turbo

Team: BMW M Team WRT

#24 Sheldon van der Linde, Dries Vanthoor, Robin Frijns and Rene Rast

#25 Philipp Eng, Marco Whittmann, Kevin Magnussen and Raffale Marciello

 

While the BMW team lineups remain unchanged, albeit with the drivers having been rotated between the two entries. The big news is that after 16 years, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLLR) was dropped as BMW’s service provider. With the Bavarian marque switching to WRT, who were running just the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) programme last year.

 

The Belgian W Racing Team, better known as WRT was founded in 2009 by former VW Motorsports Boss Rene Verbist, Vincent Vosse and Yves Veerts.

 

The team has won multiple championships and races, and is one of Europe’s premiere GT race teams. Competing also in the GT World Challenge Europe and the Intercontinental GT Challenge, series. Having won the title last year with Kelvin van der Linde and some Cat known as thee Doctor’, aka Valentino Rossi! While Rossi also competes for WRT in the GT World Challenge Europe series.

 

As could we see Rossi contesting the Rolex 24 one day in the future?

 

PORSCHE

Porsche 963

Engine: 4.6-litre V-8 Twin Turbo

Team: Porsche Penske Motorsport

#6 Kevin Estr, Laurens Vanthoor and Mat Campbell

#7 Felipe Nasr, Julien Andlauer and Laurin Heinrich

 

The big news for Porsche Penske Motorsports was the surprising decision to drop reigning IMSA Prototypes champion Mathieu Jaminet completely. While Matt Campbell gets shuffled to a supporting cast role, as the No. 6’s Michelin endurance cup rounds only. Meaning neither driver gets the chance to defend their championship.

 

And the Blood letting runs deeper, with Nick Tandy, winner of last’s year’s Rolex 24 being dropped from the team! Effectively being swapped with new “Endurance Specialist” Laurin Heinrich, who graduates from His 2024 GTD Pro Championship winning campaign with AO Racing, with Tandy taking over Heinrich’s seat in AO Racing’s “Rexi” Porsche 911.

 

All of this follows the “winding Up” of Porsche’s World Endurance Championship programme.

 

  Kevin Estr and Laurens Vanthoor continue together in the No. 6 entry, as the pair won the FIA World Endurance Championship Hypercar title in 2024. While Mathieu Jaminet, who along with Campbell won the IMSA GTP Prototypes title last year in the same car, has joined the Genesis FIA World Endurance Championship Hypercar team this season.

 

Julien Andlauer steps up to a full season drive alongside Felipe Nasr, the only holdover from last year’s full season IMSA Porsche drivers. As Andlauer is another of the Porsche WEC Werks’ drivers moving to IMSA this year.

 

Interestingly, both ScottyMac’, aka Scott McLaughlin and Josef Schlick’ Newgarden participated in the Daytona IMSA test last November behind the wheel of the team’s two Porsche 963’s, but won’t contest this year’s Rolex 24…

 

Although subsequently, I learned via DXDT Racing’s website that McLaughlin had joined their Michelin Endurance Cup effort, and will drive the team’s No. 36 Corvette Z06 GT3.R entry in the GT Daytona (GTD) class.

 

Meanwhile, the Porsche Penske Motorsports No. 7 and Nasr are the defending Rolex 24 winners, seeking a third consecutive w’ this weekend.

 

Team: JDC-Miller Motorsports

#85 Tijmen van der Helm, Bryce Aron and Nico Pino

 

Tijmen van der Helm and Bryce Aron return from last year’s campaign. Whilst Nico Pino who previously drove for Proton Competition moves over to JDC-Miller Motorsports this year. Whom I’m guessing will be the team’s “Endurance Specialist”.

 

As JDC-Miller Motorsports continues racing the only privateer Porsche 963 entry, albeit Proton Competition wishes to return to IMSA GTP competition in the near future… 

ROLEX 24: A trio of the GTP Grid’s Contendahs’

But we’ll have to wait a further 48 Hours to find out whose this year’s winner…

 

Without further Adu, here’s a triumvirate of IMSA GTP Class entrants. (In alphabetical order)

 

ACURA

Acura ARX-06

Engine: 2.4-litre V-6 Twin Turbo

Team: Meyer Shank Racing with Curb/Agajanian

#60 Tom Blomqvist, Colin Brown, Scott Dixon and A.J. Allmendinger

#93 Renger van der Zande, Nick Yelloly, Alex Palou and Kakunoshin Ohta

 

Meyer Shank Racing continues as Acura’s GTP Factory entry, with one driver change amongst it’s eight Pilotes.

 

The “lead” No. 60 MSR entry again features Tom “The Bomb” Blomqvist and Colin Brown as it’s full season drivers.

 

Blomqvist and Brown were the 2023 IMSA GTP Prototypes champions, along with winning that year’s Rolex 24 for Acura. The team’s and Acura’s latest win, which surely must seem like a long time ago now, Eh?

 

Scotty thee Iceman 2.0’ Dixon returns as the No. 60’s Endurance “Specialist”. Whilst the Ohio based squad “Plug’s ‘n Play” with the return of the Dinger’, a la A.J. Allmendinger. Getting what I believe is His debut aboard the Acura ARX-06 GTP racecar, replacing Felix-the-Cat’ (Rosenqvist) who raced last year.

 

As the No. 60 entry’s loaded for Bear, with a total of seven Rolex winner’s wristwatches behind it’s keyboard. As MSR aims for it’s fourth Rolex 24 win. Having won in 2012 and 2022-2023.

 

The “second” No. 93 entry remains unchanged with  Renger van der Zande and Nick Yelloly for the full season. Attacking Daytona’s High Banks with assistance again from Cheeps’ IndyCar multi-times Champions Alex Palou! Along with Kakunoshin Ohta.

 

As Ohta, who competes in Super GT and Super formula, drove for MSR at Daytona, Watkins Glen and Indianapolis last year.

 

Aston Martin

Aston Martin Valkyrie LMH

Engine: 6.5-litre normally aspirated V-12

Team: Aston Martin THOR Valkyrie

#23 Roman De Angelis, Ross Gunn and Alex Riberas

 

Aston Martin makes it’s Rolex 24 IMSA GTP prototypes debut with The Heart Of Racing. (THOR) As this shrieking, I said speak up sonny! Normally aspirated Cosworth V-12 lump’ is a definite Fan favourite!

 

As Racer’s Marshall Pruett “Dropped” this exclusive recording of an ‘Ol school 6.5-litre normally aspirated glorious sounding V-12 motor getting a proper workout on Daytona’s 3.56-mile road course during testing over a year ago…

 

MP1569: Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH In-Car at Daytona

 

Having made it’s competition debut at the 12 Hours of Sebring with a single entry. Aston Martin then ran two Valkyrie AMR-LMH (Le Mans Hypercar) entries at last year’s 24 Heurs du Mans, with both cars finishing P12 and P14.

 

Fast forward to last October’s Petit Le mans, where the No. 23 Valkyrie claimed it’s maiden podium, with an excellent second place finish, with the same three drivers. And who knows how the Valkyrie will fair in it’s maiden Rolex 24? Being the only LMH entry to contest IMSA GTP…

 

CADILLAC

Cadillac V-Series.R

Engine: 5.5-litre normally aspirated V-8

Team: Cadillac Wayne Taylor Racing

#10 Ricky Taylor, Filipe Albuquerque and Will Stevens

#40 Jordan Taylor, Louis Deletraz and Colton Herta

 

As previously noted, Wayne Taylor has a long, successful relationship with Cadd-Oh-lac’. Having won multiple Rolex 24 and IMSA SportsCar Championship titles with them.

 

As Wayne Taylor Racing )WTR) has won the Rolex 24 with Cadillac machinery three times in the past decade, i.e.; 2017 and 2019-2020.

 

The driver roster remain largely intact from last year’s WTR lineups. Although K-Squared’, aka Kamui Kobayashi, who’s won two Rolex wristwatches with WTR. Along with Bad Arse Sports Car Ace Brendan Hartley have both been dropped from WTR this year.

 

The “Big” news is that Cadillac F1 Development Driver and Formula 2 racer Colton Herta becomes the No. 40’s “Endurance Specialist”, slated to race at Daytona, Sebring and Petit le Mans, when not busy with His “Day Jobs” across thoust gory Puddle.

 

As both WRT entries will slim down to just three drivers rotation this January. While WTR seeks it’s fifth outright victory since 2017. Having “Three-peated” between 2019-2021 with Cadillac and Acura, before returning to General Motors luxury brand last year.

 

Team: Cadillac Whelen Action Express Racing

#31 Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber, Frederik Vesti and Connor Zilisch

 

Although officially known as Whelen Cadillac, it’s run by Action Express Racing. (AXR)

 

Earl Bamber and Jack “Achey Breaky” Aitken continue their fulltime season IMSA GTP campaign. Along with Frederik Vesti running the endurance rounds, for a second, straight year.

 

The trio’s joined by rising NASCAR Star Connor Zilisch, making His Rolex 24 debut. As Zilisch, who finished runner-up in the Xfinity series last year with 10 wins. Replaces Aston Martin F1 reserve driver Felipe Drugovich, who raced at Daytona last year.

 

As AXR’s latest Rolex 24 win came Wayback in 2018! With the team having three Rolex 24 victories overall, i.e.; 2010, 2014 and 2018. Whilst Cadillac hasn’t won since 2020, which is a very long time ago… 

IndyCar Drivers, Team joins Rolex 24 Tintops’ ranks

But will Any of them win their respective Classes?

 

Just days, or the following day after Romain Grosjean had left the employment of Lamborghini’s Squadra Corse. Saying He didn’t want to drive GT3 machinery, but prototypes instead, Chuh-Ching!

 

Grosjean announced He was very excited to be joining Myers Riley Racing for Daytona, behind the wheel of their No. 16 Ford Mustang GT3 Evo. Joining Jenson Altznan, Sheena Monk and Felipe Fraga.

 

With the “pausing” of Lamborghini’s SC63 programme, Riley Motorsports has also shut down it’s LMP2 effort with the retirement of Gar Robinson. Thus seeing Riley embark upon it’s latest project, in conjunction with Ross Myers.

 

As the press release casually noted that Myers was the proprietor of 3 Dog Garage, a vintage Automotive museum in Pennsylvania.

 

3 Dog Garage museum

 

As Ross’s early passion for automobiles began when piecing together His first Hot rod at age 8! And much later taking up racing…

 

Yet 3 Dog Garage surely, couldn’t be what funds the new race team could it? Before finding serendipitously on Ye Intrawoods’ an article from Virginia Tech’s Engineering department for A. Ross Myres, Class of 1972. Graduating with a BS in Civil Engineering.

 

As the family construction business has grown into the colossus known as American Infrastructure today, which Ross is the President and CEO of. A leading Civil Engineering company ranked in the Top 50 of Heavy and Highway Contractors.

 

Ross Myres – Virginia Tech Alumni

 

As the #16 Dark Horse represents one half of Ford’s GTD entries; with the Gradient Racing No. 66 the other half.

 

Next, Callum Ilott announced a full season campaign driving the No. 120 Wright Motorsports Porsche 911 R GT3 Evo with new team owner Adam Adelson. Noting His IMSA GTD campaign will “Dovetail” with His IndyCar programme. Having heard David Land say that both Ilott’s and Robert Shwartzman’s contracts for the 2026 IndyCar season had been taken up. As we’re just Ah-waitin’ to find out the details of Prema Racing or whomever it’ll be called? Arse-suming they show up on the grid this year…

 

Then Marcus Ericsson announced He would race at Daytona for Wayne Taylor Racing, (WTR) behind the keyboard of it’s No. 45 Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Evo2, also in GTD.

 

And with Will Power’s engagement as part of the 75 Express Racing’s No. 75 Mercedes-AMG GT3; that gives us a total of at least three current IndyCar drivers, or is it four? Uhm, has Dale Coyne announced who His “lead” driver this year is?

 

As Power joins reigning Supercars Champion Chad Moster, team owner Kenny Habul and Mercedes-Benz Werks’ Hotschue’ Maro Engel; whose won the Rolex 24 twice, behind the No. 75 Mercs’ keyboard in the GTD Pro category…

 

Not to mention thee Mayor ‘O Hinchtown’, nee James Hinchcliffe once again “Moonlighting” in the #9 Pfaff Motorsports Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Evo2. As the Kuhnaidiun’ race team’s shiny, new Lamborghini Temerario, the Huracan’s replacement won’t debut until the 12 Hours of Sebring…

 

Pfaff’s Lamborghini Temerario Headlines new line-up at IMS Daytona Test

 

The above article was posted on Racer.com, which refuses to update its website to comply with current Web Content Accessibility Guidelines standards. Specifically WCAG 2.2 to enable ease of access for Blind or Visually Impaired readers.

 

The “lowly” GT3 Saloon ranks should be quite entertaining to watch. Since this doesn’t even include the full season’s Usual suspects, i.e.; Aston Martin, BMW, Corvette, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, Lexus, McLaren, Mercedes, Porsche. As think I got ‘em All?

 

Along with the debuts of two famous racing name sons in GT Daytona. (GTD) With Eduardo Barrichello making His full season debut with Heart of Racing’s No. 27 Aston Martin Vantage. While Lorenzo Patrese makes another cameo appearance aboard the No. 34 Conquest Racing Ferrari 296 GT3, run by former IndyCar driver Eric Bachelart.

 

Lucas Auer, nephew of Gerhard Berger, continues His longtime association with Windward Racing aboard it’s No. 57 Mercedes-AMG, but I digress…

 

Speaking ‘O McLaren, Oopsadaisy! Like I Dunno, I sort of forgot. Since it just doesn’t sound right. Regarding the debut of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and it’s No. 59 McLaren 720S GT3 Evo in the DTD Pro category.

 

As RLL Team McLaren has listed Max Esterson, Juri Vips and Dean MacDonald initially in December, with a fourth driver as TBA. Hmm, will it be Graham Rahal or Mick Schumacher?

 

Nope! On January 13th, RLLR announced that Nikita Johnson was the fourth, and final driver for Daytona. With Johnson being named to a fulltime ride alongside Esterson. As Johnson, (Age 17) will also contest His rookie Indy NXT campaign driving for Cape Motorsports Powered by ECR.

 

Whilst I didn’t even know that Mclaren had established a GT Driver Academy, previously known as Mclaren GT Young Driver Academy, before “looking-up” Dean MacDonald’s background. As MacDonald has run a variety of GT race programs, including the GT World Challenge European Series.

 

Max Esterson was also totally unknown to Mwah. Having raced briefly in Formula 2, making His debut at the season finale in 2024 for Trident. Then continuing thru  the Monza weekend in September, before leaving the championship prior to Baku.

 

Esterson made His IMSA debut driving for JDC Miller Motorsport at Petit Le Mans aboard their Porsche 963 in the GTP category, before landing His ride with RLL Team McLaren this season.

 

Meanwhile, Andretti Global IndyCar driver “Kirk”, Err Kyle Kirkwood continues His “Endurance Specialist” role with Vasser Sullivan racing. Joining the No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3 GTD Pro entry, reuniting with regular chauffeurs Ben Barnicoat and Bloody “Union Jack” Hawksworth. As this trio has been victorious previously, having won the 2024 Sebring 12 Hours GTD Pro category.

 

Then on January 5th, I learned that ScottyMac’, nee Scott Mclaughlin has joined DXDT Racing’s No. 36 GTD Corvette Z06 GT3.R entry. Which Before the official press release on Jan 7th named McLaughlin joining Salih Yoluc and Charlie Eastwood, and DXDT newcomer Mason Filippi.

 

As ScottyMac’ contested last year’s Rolex 24 driving the Trackhouse by TF Sport’s All Star Corvette Z06 GT3.R for the first time.

 

Whilst I was totally unaware that McLaughlin had raced in last September’s Suzuka 1000KM race. Finishing third for Johor Motorsport’s alongside GM Factory drivers Alexander Simms and Nicky Catsburg aboard a Corvette Z06 GT3R.

 

Also learning that new Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) Indy NXT driver James Roe will co-drive the No. 80 Lone Star Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo in the GTD category.

 

Interestingly, Roe’s joined by Aussie’ Scott Anderws, Netherlands Lin Hodenius and Estonian Ralf Aron. The latter I’m wondering if related to Alpine F1 test and reserve driver Paul Aron?

 

Yes, Paul is Ralf’s brother, some six years younger… 

ROLEX 24: It’s Time to Race Around the clock at Daytona!

Race, Race, Race around the Clock…

 

Not sure why, but after I scribbled that Oh, so Clever title, Bill Haley and the Comets “rockabilly” song Rock Around the Clock wailed loudly upon thoust internal Jukebox. Or was it the other way round? Musing to Thyself how I’d bought the very song on a 45 record during my youth, but I digress…

 

VIDEO: Rock Around the Clock

 

Once again, it’s time to go racing, even if its just Sports Car at “The Beach”. With another capacity field of 61 entrant for this year’s 64th running, comprised by 11 GTP, 14 LMP2, 15 GTD Pro and 21 GT Daytona Contendahs on the provisional entry list, released Wayback’ on December 9th.

 

By my very unscientific research, there appear to be a total of 9 IndyCar drivers competing this year. With 2 in GTP. 3 in LMP2, and 4 in GTD Pro/GT Daytona. (GTD) Presuming Prema Racing answers the “Bell”. While that doesn’t include Romain Grosjean, who we’re Ah-Waitin’ to be confirmed at Dale Coyne Racing…

 

Yet that was before learning of ScottyMac’s, ergo Scott McLauglin’s addition to the No. 36 DXDT Racing Corvette Z06 GT3.R GT Daytona (GTD) category. Thus giving us 10 IndyCar drivers competing.

 

Then on January 7th, IMSA released a revised entry list with the withdrawal of the No. 61 Team Tonis LMP2 entry. With the field shrinking to 60 entries, and 13 LMP2 competitors. As the withdrawn entry will not be replaced.

 

Although overshadowed by the top Banana GTP machinery, the LMP2 category always provides stout competition.

 

On the top step of the podium for longest name is the No. 52 Bryan Herta Autosport with PR1/Mathiasen Motorsports, as try saying that fast five times, Undelay! With Harry Tincknell, Parker Thompson, Ben Keating and Misha Goikhberg at it’s controls.

 

Whilst thanks to Sportscar365, I also learned that HMD Motorsports will run the No. 37 Intersport Racing entry in the LMP2 class. With 2022 Rolex 24 winner Oliver Jarvis, Jon Field, Seth Lucas and Job van Uitert.

 

TDF Racing features an all new driver lineup. As Bad Arses Hunter McElrea and Nikkel Jensen have moved over to the rival United Autosport No. 2 entry. Whilst Steven Thomas retired from IMSA competition after their second win in-a-row at Petit Le Mans last year.

 

Once again, Ed Carpenter Racing (ECR) IndyCar driver Christian Rasmussen will “Moonlight” in LMP2, driving alongside reigning LMP2 Champions Dane Cameron and team owner PJ Hyett. With Johnny “Not Winter” Edgar in the crowd favourite AO Racing’s No. 99 “Spike-the-Dragon”.

 

Tower Motorsports No. 8 entry features two Sebastian’s behind the keyboard, led by le Hamburgular’, Sealmeister B’, SeaBass, or simply Sebastien Bourdais. Plus Sebastian Alvarez , team owner John Farano and Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) IndyCar driver Kyffin Simpson.

 

The #04 CrowdStrike by APR entry sees Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing reserve driver Toby Sowery as one of it’s chauffeurs, including new minority Mercedes Grand Prix owner George Kurtz. Who’s just bought a 15% stake from Herr Crying All the way to the Bank Wolff! Ergo Toto Wolff.

 

Whilst the #73 Pratt Miller Motorsports entry will feature the Brothers Fittipaldi, as in Pietro and Enzo, with the latter having been confirmed as one of HMD Motorsports Indy NXT drivers this season.

 

Inter Europol Competition’s No. 343 (second) entry features Nick, “Not David” Cassidy, Georgios Kolovos, Arrow McLaren IndyCar driver Nolan Siegel and Jacub Smiechowski.

 

As that’s just a small flavour of this year’s LMP2 entrants… 

IGTC: Power makes Tintops’ Debut

With His heavier Merc’ feeling like a Waltzing Matilda over the Brickyard’s road course…

 

Although I didn’t get to tune-in or hear any of the weekend’s action at Mother Speedway Wayback’ in October.

 

Nonetheless, I was happy that DJ willyP’, ergo Will Power knocked off some of the rust during His enforced Team Penske contract “sabbatical” by making His belated Sports Car debut during the Intercontinental GT Challenge’s (IGTC) Indianapolis 8 Hours season finale on October 18th.

 

As Power joined team owner Kenny Habul and Supercars driver Chad Moster aboard the 75 Express’s No. 75 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Pro entry.

 

Interestingly, Moster currently drives for Walkinshaw Andretti Racing Down Under in the Supercars series, Just Sayin’.

 

As many know the back-story of how Power was supposed to make His IMSA GTD debut during the 2023 Rolex 24 driving for Habul. But His wife Liz’s serious Health issues kept Power from participating…

 

As Power said it was a little bit Awkward initially piloting the Merc’, before settling down to a rhythm on a racecourse He knows pretty well.

 

“Felt Very Awkward”: Will Power on first Endurance outing in 21 years of IndyCar racing

 

Yet Power wasn’t the only IndyCar driver participating. As former Juncos Hollinger Racing driver Conor Daly finished fourth, two places ahead of Power. As Conor brought the Random Vandals #99 BMW M4 GT3 Evo to the chequered flag, co-driving with full season drivers Connor de Phillippi and Kenton Koch.

 

While the race was Wet ‘n wooly, finishing under caution. As the race was interrupted by nearby area Lightning strikes and torrential rain, with a lengthy Red flag period.

 

As it was another Big name at the sharp end. With Thee doctor’, aka Valentino Rossi and company winning overall. As Rossi, Kelvin van der Linde and Charles Weerts drove their No. 46 Team WRT BMW M4 GT3 Evo to victory over the Yard of Bricks. Which Y’all can read all of the Gory details in the link below.

 

Van der Linde wins Historic title treble in Stormy Indianapolis 8 Hours

 

Whilst Power and Company’s sixth place finish ensured Habul of capturing the IGTC Independent Cup title when scoring His second class victory.

 

Meanwhile, Kelvin van der Linde won the IGTC Drivers Championship for the fourth time, while His co-driver Valentino rossi claimed His first IGTC victory. And in doing so, has now won both on two wheels and four at Mother Speedway. Which I don’t know if anybody else can say that?

 

As Kelvin is the younger brother of Sheldon van der Linde, who drove for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing’s IMSA GTP Werks’ BMW M8 prototype. Which Team WRT takes over next year while keeping the current drivers line-ups intact.

 

Including the likes of Kevin Bacon’ Magnussen; former Formula 1 driver and “One-off” IndyCar driver. Who also raced for Chip Ganassi Racing in Sports cars when they ran the Cadillac GTP programme.

 

Next, I somehow accidentally “spotted” the news that DJ WillyP’, ergo Will Power had participated in the IMSA test at Daytona during November 14-16, in preparation for next year’s Rolex 24.

 

Again, Power was part of the 75 Express Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo crew, with team owner Kenny Habul and Mercedes Werks’ Hotschue’ Mickael Grenier. With the trio set to compete in the GTD Pro category at Daytona this coming January 24-25.

 

As Power mused, His move from Team Penske to Andretti Global has opened the door for more driving opportunities… 

F1: Post Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Young guns results

Y’all remember that test outing, Don’t Yuhs?

 

Now that IMSA’s “Super bowl” 24 Hours of Daytona is far behind in our rear view mirrors. And NASCAR Fans are still reveling in the just concluded Day-toner’ 500. As no idea of how ‘Ol Hulio’ did…

 

Soon, it’ll be time for Formula One’s lone, three day test in Bahrain; February 26-28, two weeks prior to the season opening Australian Grand Prix.

 

Thus, suppose its time to shift gears and begin focusing upon Open Wheel Racing, Eh? Since after all this Blog is called No Fenders. Which I scribble about occasionally, Hya!

 

Yet as always, your Haggard, Humble No Fenders scribe Tomaso is behind, and definitely at least one lap down! Simply unable to type-type-type fast enough for your consumption…

 

And although it garners almost zero attention, and certainly isn’t available visually. Nonetheless, the results of the yearly post Abu Dhabi Young Guns test results always intrigues me.

 

As there were a total of twenty-three drivers taking part. With teams allowed to run current Grands Prix drivers in their 2025 Pirelli tyre testing chassis. While the second car was allotted to driver who’ve only participated in a maximum of two Grands Prix. Leaving a disgruntled Oliver Bearman on the sidelines, due to His having contested three Grands Prix last season.

 

As the top four positions were held by Formula 1 race drivers. It should be no surprise that the touted Kimi Antonelli was quickest of the rookies. Even though being ill and only contesting the afternoon session. Hence the two Mercedes “Juniors” taking part, along with both Aston Martin and Ferrari splitting morning and afternoon sessions driving duties…

 

While check out who was P7. Hmm, Pato Who indeed Mark Miles, cough-cough!

 

As no idea what the two regular McLaren Boyz’ were doing regarding tyre testing, but Lando Norris finished P16 and Oscar Piastri was 19th.

 

Rookies/Young Gun Drivers

(Overall position/Driver/Team)

5) Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

6) Ayumu Iwasa, Racing Bulls

7) Pato O’Ward, McLaren

9) Paul Aron, Alpine

11) Luke Browning, Williams

12) Ryo Hirakawa, Haas

14) Arthur Leclerc, Ferrari

15) Isack Hadjar, Red Bull

18) Gabriel Bortoleto, Sauber

20) Jack Crawford, Aston Martin

21) Felipe Drugovich, Aston Martin

22) Frederick Vesti, Mercedes

23) Antonio Fuoco, Ferrari

 

Even more impressive about O’Ward’s outing, is that He finished ahead of next year F1 rookies Jack Doohan, (8th) Isack Hadjar (15th) and Gabriel Bortoledo. (18th)

 

Had never heard of Ayumu Iwasa before the test. As the Japanese driver who raced in Formula 2 between 2022-23, and currently competes in Japan’s Super formula series. Is a member of the Red bull Junior programme, and a member of Honda’s Formula Dream project. Hence His testing for Racing bulls, for which I’d say He acquitted Himself nicely…

 

In descending order, Paul Aron, who finished third overall in last year’s FIA Formula 2 championship. Is part of the now overly crowded Alpine reserve drivers squad, which includes Franco Colapinto and Rya Hirakawa.

 

Hirakawa drives for Toyota’s FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) as His “Day Job”, having won the 2022 24 Heurs du Mans. And with Haas’s new technical alliance with Toyota, was given the nod for its “Young Guns” racecar.

 

Yet Hirakawa has now signed on as the third Alpine reserve, which aligns with Toyota’s sponsorship of Hitech’s lower formulae racing teams.

 

The others are all “tied” to their respective teams they drove for. With Luke Browning being a Williams Academy driver, a la the former Colapinto, and races in Formula 2. Although He’ll be driving for Hitech TGR this season in Formula 2, so no idea if still with Team Willy?

 

Arthur Leclerc is indeed the younger brother of Ferrar’s Charles Leclerc, with the pair making History earlier when both driving for Ferrari in the (Free Practice) FP1 session at Abu Dhabi. Whilst Antonio Fuoco races for Ferrari AF Corse in the WEC and won the 2024 24 Heurs du Mans as a Scuderia Ferrari Factory driver.

 

The lone Yank’ on the grid was Jack Crawford, another aspiring F2 racer, set to contest His third season in Formula 2 for Dams Lucas Oil. But with 54 races contested to date, with just two wins. Well, I’d say His chances of a Formula 1 ride are virtually nil…

 

Interestingly, I just learned that Crawford is also Andretti Global’s Formlua E reserve driver. While Crawford can take solace over beating out fellow Aston Martin reserve Felipe Drugovich by one position, in their intra-Aston Martin scrum.

 

Whilst Drugovich, the 2022 FIA Formula 2 Champion has most recently competed in this year’s Rolex 24 alongside fellow ex-F2 competitor Vesti.

 

As could Crawford and Drugovich be in line to race aboard Aston’s Valkyrie Hypercar project?

 

Frederik Vesti, a Mercedes Junior team member, drove the morning session for an ill Antonelli. As the Dane’ raced in F2 for two seasons. Finishing runner-up in 2023 with six wins, behind Theo Pourchaire.

 

Last year Vesti raced Sports Cars, primarily in the European Le Mans Series )ELMS) in LMP2. Along with making His debut in both the 24 Heurs du Mans and Rolex 24. The latter driving for Era Motorsport in the LMP2 category.

 

For 2025, Vesti has signed to race as Cadillac Whelen Engineering’s “third” endurance driver. Aboard the No. 31 Cadd-Oh-Lac’ V-Serioes.R IMSA GTP racecar, beginning at Daytona…