DragonSpeed Shifts Focus After Petit Le Mans
DragonSpeed made its final appearance in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship at Petit Le Mans, marking the end of an era for the team. With three Rolex 24 class victories to its name, the US-based team will transition to operate a customer racing program in Ferrari Challenge North America starting in 2027.
Team owner Elton Julian outlined the new direction in a statement: “I was approached to do a job… So we agreed, let’s do it!” Julian’s deal with TWG Global will see the formation of a multi-car program, initially centered around Ferrari Challenge, with ambitions for expansion into GT3 racing as the program grows.
Team Structure and Partnerships
DragonSpeed’s pivot comes as the team aims to retain its core staff while establishing a new headquarters. Julian described the collaboration with TWG Global as a strong opportunity, facilitated by relationships with industry figures such as Aaron Zeigler, a title sponsor in NASCAR, and Ronnie Vogel, a notable Ferrari dealer.
“We won’t go past 10 racers…successful teams have grown beyond that and then start to suffer,” Julian stated, emphasizing a commitment to quality and sustainable growth. The operation will include comprehensive team functions, aiming to deliver a full-featured customer racing experience.
Commitment to Current Drivers
The transition will not sever ties with long-time driver Henrik Hedman. Julian confirmed ongoing care for Hedman’s car collection and plans to field his son, William, in the upcoming Ferrari Challenge season. “Now that we’re there, it’s a no-brainer for William to race with us,” said Julian.
As the team prepares for this new chapter, they are set to begin testing with eager customers at their new facility in Indiana, previously used for Andretti’s IndyCar operations. The members of DragonSpeed look forward to crafting a new legacy in customer racing.
