Ryan Hardwick Sets Sights on Le Mans Glory
As the Le Mans 24 Hours approaches, 44-year-old Ryan Hardwick from Knoxville, Tennessee, prepares for a significant milestone in his motorsport career, driving for the Porsche powerhouse Manthey in the LMGT3 class.
Hardwick’s journey began at age six with motorcycle racing, significantly influenced by his father’s passion for endurance events. "I’ve been racing something since I was six years old," Hardwick recalls, having also competed successfully in jet ski racing, where he claimed national and world championships. His extensive background in competitive racing has equipped him with unique skills, from surface awareness to traction management, giving him a competitive edge in car racing, which he entered later than many of his peers.
After transitioning to car racing in 2017, Hardwick quickly climbed the ranks, achieving notable success in Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America. He switched to Porsche racing in IMSA, where he earned victories at prestigious events like the Sebring 12 Hours and the Rolex 24 at Daytona, showcasing his ability to quickly adapt to various racing formats.
In 2023, he emerged as the GTE champion in the European Le Mans Series, securing the title with Proton Competition. His season included wins at Barcelona and Portimao, emphasizing his commitment to mastering ACO rules and strategies essential for success in European events.
Reflecting on his first experience at Le Mans, Hardwick acknowledges the emotional weight of racing in the centenary event, despite it not going as planned. "I watched the race 15 years ago and learned everything I could," he states. His determination was reignited by previous struggles, including a challenging debut and a difficult season with the new Ford Mustang GT3 in WEC.
This year, Hardwick reunites with Manthey Racing, keen to capitalize on the team’s winning pedigree. "I feel more suited to a mid or rear-engined car. To join Manthey was a key decision because they know how to prepare and win," he said, highlighting his focus on data analysis, fitness, and driving technique.
With solid performances in the current WEC season, including a victory at Imola, Hardwick heads into his third Le Mans attempt confident. "To win Le Mans and a world championship are my main goals," he emphasizes. "The racing in the WEC is perfect, especially for a Bronze driver like me."
As he gears up for the historic endurance race, Hardwick’s journey from dirt bikes to the pinnacle of sports car racing illustrates a relentless pursuit of excellence in motorsports.
